DepartmentThe Jones lab is part of the Plant Productivity group at the University of Essex. The demands of a growing world population for food and fuel are putting greater pressure on the need for higher yielding crop varieties that do not rely on a high input and demand of chemicals or water. The Plant Productivity group is taking a whole organism approach to identify key genes and processes that determine productivity in plants in constantly changing environmental conditions.Duties of the RoleThe post-holder will perform research as part of the Jones group within the School of Biological Sciences. This will include completing experiments, recording data, producing reports, as well as developing methods and specialist in-house equipment (with support from other members of the Jones group). There may be an opportunity for an appropriately-qualified post-holder to complete a PhD alongside their contracted responsibilities.Skills and qualifications requiredIt is essential that the post-holder holds an appropriate academic qualification or has relevant experience in a laboratory environment. You will be familiar with a range of routine life science instrumentation. You will be proficient in the use of IT (e.g. Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook). At the University of Essex internationalism is central to who we are and what we do. We are committed to being a cosmopolitan, internationally-oriented university that is welcoming to staff and students from all countries and a university where you can find the world in one place.Please see the further detail link below for a full job description and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role plus more information relating to the post. We recommend you read this information carefully before making an application. Applications should be made on-line, but if you would like advice or help in making an application, or need information in a different format, please telephone the Resourcing Team (01206 876559).*Further detail: Research Assistant jobpack*More information: Working at the University