About the Research Assistant Role

This is a unique opportunity to work at the crossroads of biology, computer science, and engineering. As a Pre-Doctoral Research Assistant, you’ll collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to design and implement custom imaging systems, Raspberry Pi-based automation tools, and machine learning pipelines for advanced research in plant-microbe interactions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop imaging systems using Raspberry Pi and open-source tools
• Create pipelines for image acquisition, processing, and machine learning
• Collaborate with biologists to support experimental research
• Produce technical documentation, SOPs, and user manuals
• Present findings at lab meetings and contribute to scientific publications

About The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL)

TSL is a world-renowned research institute focused on plant health, microbial interactions, and sustainable agriculture. With top-tier facilities and a collaborative culture, TSL offers an ideal environment for early-career scientists to thrive.

Project Highlights

As part of this innovative research role, you’ll contribute to:

• Monitoring microbial growth in real-time within incubators
• Automated phenotyping of plants in controlled environments
• Building custom imaging and sensing systems for plant-microbe studies
• Applying machine learning (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) for biological data analysis

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or related field
• Proficiency in Python or equivalent programming languages
• A basic understanding of plant biology
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills

Desirable Skills (Bonus Points)

• Hands-on experience with Raspberry Pi development
• Familiarity with OpenCV, image processing, or computer vision tools
• Knowledge of machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch)
• Previous experience in a research or laboratory automation setting

Position Details

• Job Title: Pre-Doctoral Research Assistant
• Salary: £23,881 (TSL Grade 3, Spine Point 11)
• Contract: 1-Year Full-Time
• Location: The Sainsbury Laboratory, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
• Start Date: Immediate (flexible start options available)

Why Join TSL?

• 30 days of annual leave + UK public holidays
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities
• Mentorship from leading plant science experts
• Support for scientific writing and grant applications
• A vibrant and inclusive research community
• Generous pension scheme and training opportunities

How to Apply

• Application Reference Code: DM01-2025
• Deadline: Applications will be reviewed starting 15th May 2025
• Final closing date: 15th June 2025 or until the position is filled

Submit your application via the APPLY NOW button, including:

• CV (max 2 pages)
• Cover letter (1 page) explaining your motivation and fit
• Contact information for 2–3 referees

For queries, contact: HR@TSL.ac.uk

About The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL)

Located in the beautiful Norfolk countryside, The Sainsbury Laboratory is a globally recognized leader in plant-microbe interaction research. TSL is dedicated to sustainable agriculture and plant health, providing a dynamic, inclusive, and innovative environment for scientists at all career stages.