Crop Genebank Head of Service

Job Description

Hours per week: 37
Project Title: Crop Genebank Head of Service
Expected/Ideal Start Date: 09 Feb 2026
Duration: Indefinite

The Head of Service is the primary point of contact for both external and internal users of the seed collections. They triage seed requests submitted through the public database, advise on the most appropriate germplasm choices, and coordinate seed import and export to support JIC scientists. They also supervise cost recovery charges, maintain service documentation, curate germplasm associated data, and lead continuous improvement initiatives such as molecular barcoding, user training, SOP development, and data utilisation.

Key Relationships

Internal: Line manager, GR NBRI group members, and other researchers, support staff, and students across the Institute.
External: Collaborators and germplasm users worldwide, including academic researchers, educators, breeders, depositors (e.g., NIAB, the British Association of Plant Breeders), and UK and international seed certification authorities. Also liaises with the Finance team.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• Certify conserved seeds with the Animal and Plant Health Agency and support phytosanitary certification.
• Maintain GRU operations track records and improve SOPs.
• Enhance service outputs, internal operations, and cost effectiveness.
• Serve as first point of contact for seed users, triaging requests through the public database.
• Oversee germplasm and data deposition from UK breeders and partners.
• Provide germplasm selection advice to external users and SOP guidance to new team members.
• Promote GRU reputation through conferences, exhibitions, visits, and engagement activities.
• Seek continuous excellence via feedback, learning, and development opportunities.
• Perform other duties as agreed with line manager, including committee participation.
• Manage GRU cost recovery mechanism with Finance support.
• Handle routine admin tasks (consumables, stocks).
• Support group operations, supervise visitors, and train staff in conservation practices.
• Design and supervise small R&D projects to improve GRU outputs.

Education & Qualifications

• BSc or equivalent in biological sciences (plant sciences preferred).
• PhD or equivalent in crop sciences, or >5 years experience in crop gene banking.
• Qualification in seed conservation and global use.
• Desirable: MSc in crop sciences, plant breeding, genetics, genomics, or seed biology.

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

• Understanding of crop germplasm utilisation.
• Experience in crop genomics and plant breeding environment.
• Knowledge of seed biology, molecular markers, and plant pathology.
• Supervision of students and visiting workers.
• Database and research environment experience.
• Scientific writing, technical presentations, and grant proposal preparation.
• Technical training delivery.

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork abilities.
• Independent, initiative driven problem solver.
• Strong time management and organisational skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication, including complex information presentation.
• Stakeholder collaboration and SOP adherence.
• Commitment to continuous improvement.

Additional Requirements

• Promotes equality and values diversity.
• Positive representation of the Institute.
• Maintains confidentiality and information security.
• Willingness to work outside standard hours and undertake occasional travel.
• Attention to detail.

About the John Innes Centre

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial genetics, established as a charitable organization. We conduct fundamental and strategic research, train scientists, and apply our findings for societal benefit. We are proud of our Athena SWAN Gold award and membership in Stonewall's Diversity Champions programme, and we guarantee interview opportunities to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.

Position Details

Salary: £37,500 - £45,350 per annum (dependent on qualifications and experience).
Contract: Full time, indefinite.
Location: John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK.
Closing date: 1 February 2026.
Reference: .