Research Assistant The Mycorrhizal Ecology Team within the Ecosystem and Conservation Science Department is seeking an experienced Research Assistant to provide lab, data and organisational support for the sample processing of soil and roots sent to RBG Kew as part of the Defra-funded Natural Capital Ecosystem Assessment (NCEA) project. This position involves coordination and contribution to processing vast amounts of time-sensitive root and soil samples. The post holder will also provide organisational support to members of the research group, including technical staff, students and visitors. Contract Type Fixed Term (FTA) Contract start date 18 November 2026 Contract end date 31 March 2027 Salary £34,216 - £36,954 per annum, depending on skills and experience [Band C] Directorate Science Location Kew Gardens, Richmond Closing Date 13/09/2026 Documents Employee benefits - RBG Kew 2026.pdf (PDF, 459.97kb) Job Profile .pdf (PDF, 174.86kb) The desirable candidate will be a highly motivated individual with established experience in processing soil and root samples for mycorrhizas, with a complete familiarity of the processes involved in the NCEA laboratory work being conducted at RBG Kew. The post holder should possess additional experience in the coordination of peers for meeting weekly goals of sample processing, as well as familiarity with inputting data into existing datasets. The position requires the need to accommodate flexible working arrangements when processing time-sensitive samples.

Required:

MSc or equivalent in an appropriate subject (i.e. biological sciences, environmental sciences). Experience in some or all of the following: microscopy, DNA extraction, PCR, DNA sequencing (Sanger and/or PacBio), mycorrhizal root staining, mycorrhizal identification, ergosterol extractions, image labelling for AI use. Existing laboratory experience directly relatable to that conducted within the Mycorrhizal Ecology Team is a plus, as is existing experience in helping to coordinate lab tasks and training for a large lab group. Experience with SQL and python languages for databases in post-gres is a further additional plus. Please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history. Join us on our journey as protectors of the world's plants and fungi. The salary for this position is £34,216 - £36,954 per annum, depending on skills and experience [Band C] Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst. If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking "". At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve. As a disability confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to be an inclusive workplace for everyone. Whoever you are, and however you experience the world, there is a place for you to grow and belong at Kew. No agencies please.