Centre for Crop and Environmental Science Research Assistant

(Full Time | Fixed Term for 3 Years (with potential for extension)

Harper Adams University is the UK’s leading specialist university for agriculture, food production, animal sciences, engineering and environmental management. Located on a rural campus in Shropshire, the University combines excellent teaching and research with strong industry links and a reputation for graduate employability.

We are seeking a proactive Research Assistant to join the newly established Centre for Crop and Environmental Sciences (CCES). The Centre brings together expertise in crop science, soil and water management, pathology, entomology and nematology to address challenges including climate change, sustainable food production, crop health and environmental resilience.

This primarily field-based role will support undergraduate and postgraduate teaching alongside a variety of research projects. Working with academic staff, researchers and students, you will help manage the University’s field research facilities and contribute to high-quality scientific research and practical teaching.

Responsibilities include supporting field and glasshouse trials, assisting with experiments, data collection and analysis, maintaining machinery and equipment stores, preparing chemicals and reagents, and ensuring facilities operate safely and effectively. You will also contribute to health and safety management by preparing and reviewing risk and COSHH assessments and delivering inductions for facility users.

Applicants should hold a degree in biology, agricultural science or a related discipline, or possess equivalent professional experience. Experience with plants or field-based research is desirable, along with strong organisational and communication skills. Experience of supervising students or casual staff and knowledge of UK health and safety procedures would be advantageous, although training will be provided. A full UK driving licence is essential.

Harper Adams offers modern research facilities, staff development opportunities and a supportive community, making it an excellent place to develop a career in agricultural and environmental research.

For informal discussion relating to the post, please contact Matt Rodenhurst (mrodenhurst@harper-adams.ac.uk) or Jim Monaghan (jmonaghan@harperadams.ac.uk). For further information about the University or to see full job description, please click the 'Apply' button above. 

Application Procedure:

Please apply online via the Harper Adams e-Recruitment programme at http://jobs.harper-adams.ac.uk  submitting your CV and a personal statement outlining your suitability for the role. Your personal statement should clearly demonstrate how your skills, experience, and achievements meet the requirements outlined in the person specification. Applications without a personal statement may not be considered Completed applications should be received no later than 11.59 PM, Sunday 31st May 2026.

Should you require any adjustments to complete your application for this role then please contact vacancies@harper-adams.ac.uk

This position is not expected to meet the criteria required for the University to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship. Applications from candidates who need sponsorship to work in the UK will be assessed in line with the requirements outlined in the recruitment documentation. All hiring decisions will follow the guidance set by UK Visas and Immigration

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