Germination Specialist

You will help to deliver RBG Kew’s mission by solving seed germination and dormancy problems on Millennium Seed Bank (MSB) collections and by conducting applied research to support ecological restoration, sustainable use and species re-introduction initiatives. This specialist role provides essential support to the three seed processing teams in the Conservation and Technology section of the Seed Conservation Department. Expert knowledge and understanding of seed germination and dormancy and seed viability theory is used to solve collection related problems and set viability monitoring intervals that underpin the effective management of the MSB’s collections, thus reducing the risk of undetected viability loss and maximising the potential use of the collections for habitat repair or sustainable use projects.

ESSENTIALS:

You will have a degree in plant sciences, or equivalent, as well as broad experience of working in a science laboratory environment, including some experience of designing experiments to test hypotheses. You will need to possess an up-to-date understanding of seed germination and dormancy and seed viability theory, be able to effectively handle data and use a variety of databases such as MS Access, and have the ability to manipulate and dissect small seeds using binocular microscopes. You will also have good interpersonal skills and be competent in the use of Genstat or other similar statistics packages.

Benefits include 30 days holiday per year, a choice of defined benefit or stakeholder pension, a flexible benefits scheme as well as a great working environment.

For full details of the job purpose, accountabilities and essential education, skills and experience for this role please view the Job Profile document.

INTERVIEW DATE: w/c 27 February 2012 (Interviews are likely to be 1st or 2nd March 2012)