Job for Researchers: Research Technician in Farming Systems — NIAB

About the Role

NIAB is seeking a motivated and practical Farming Systems Research Technician to join its Farming Systems team on a 6-month fixed-term contract in the first instance. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to industry-leading research focused on soils, farming systems, agronomy and sustainable crop production. Working alongside Farming Systems Specialists and the wider trials team, you will support the delivery of field experiments, long-term research programmes and monitoring projects across Morley and East Anglia.

The position suits someone with experience in the agricultural or land-based sector who enjoys working outdoors, has strong attention to detail, and is keen to develop their knowledge of agricultural research and soil science.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of farming systems, agronomy and soil research projects
• Assist with the establishment, management and monitoring of field trials involving combinable crops, pulses, sugar beet and maize
• Carry out soil and crop assessments, sampling and measurements in line with research protocols
• Collect, validate and process research data using electronic systems and software packages
• Support data analysis and reporting activities, including use of Excel and other analytical tools
• Operate and maintain research equipment, including field monitoring and sampling equipment
• Work closely with the Eastern Trials Team and external collaborators to ensure successful trial delivery
• Assist with demonstrations, site visits, plot tours and knowledge exchange events
• Maintain high standards of health, safety and compliance across all activities

Person Specification

Essential Requirements

• Experience within the agriculture, environmental or wider land-based sector
• Good standard of education including English, Mathematics and Science
• Full UK driving licence (travel to other trial sites within the region and occasionally to other centres around the UK is required)
• Experience of data collection, recording and analysis
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Microsoft Office proficiency (Outlook, Word and Excel)
• A genuine interest in agricultural research and innovation

Desirable Requirements

• Qualification in agriculture, applied science or a related land-based subject
• Experience of agricultural field trials or research projects
• Knowledge of crop production, soil science, environmental monitoring or agronomy
• Experience with GIS, statistical analysis software or data management systems
• PA1, PA2 and PA6 certifications or other machinery-related qualifications

Working Conditions

This role involves a mix of office and fieldwork, requiring flexibility and resilience to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Tasks are physically demanding and include manual handling of items up to 25kg, such as seed bags and soil samples. Periods of lone working and additional hours during peak seasons are expected.

Location

The role is based at Morley, Norfolk (NR18 9DF). You will manage the day-to-day operations of the NIAB long-term experiment programme at Morley and across East Anglia, and occasionally assist at sites across the UK, including the Cambridge headquarters.

About NIAB

NIAB is the UK’s leading crop science organisation, with research capabilities in plant genetics, agronomy, farming systems and data science. It operates the largest national field trials capability and maintains strong research links with industry, government and academia. With headquarters in Cambridge and regional offices across the country, NIAB employs over 350 people and advances the role of plant genetic resources through research services and training.

What We Offer

• Salary: £24,455 per annum
• Contract: 6-month fixed term in the first instance, with opportunity to convert to a permanent role subject to organisational needs and satisfactory performance
• Working hours: 37 hours per week (Monday to Friday)
• 25 days annual leave plus public holidays and 3 additional days off during the Christmas period
• Generous sick pay and attractive pension scheme
• Income protection and life assurance
• Employee discount scheme and comprehensive training programme
• Positive commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion; Disability Confident Employer

How to Apply

Closing date: 28 July 2026

Informal enquiries are welcome – please contact Nathan Morris ([email protected]).

This is a UK-based role. You will be required to demonstrate your right to work in the UK as part of the recruitment process. Where the role meets the relevant criteria, NIAB is able to consider Skilled Worker visa sponsorship in line with Home Office requirements. Any offer of sponsorship will be subject to the role meeting skill and salary thresholds and to the individual meeting Home Office eligibility criteria.

NIAB is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. Applications are encouraged from all sections of society, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under the Equality Act 2010. NIAB reserves the right to withdraw or close this vacancy at any time.

Original vacancy