Assistant Laboratory Technician A3

Scottish Government

Job Location:

Edinburgh - UK

Monthly Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: 30+ days ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Description

Job description

Are you an excellent team player who would like to play a key role in supporting the production of healthy potatoes in Scotland

An opportunity has arisen to join the Virology & Zoology (V&Z) branch within the Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) division of Scottish Government. The core function of the branch is to carry out diagnostic testing on a range of samples to meet the Scottish Governments commitments in relation to Seed Potato Classification and Plant Health Regulations.

Working in the Nematology laboratory which is the single official testing centre for potato cyst nematodes (PCN) in Scotland and is responsible for processing up to 18000 soil samples each year from land that is intended for growing seed potatoes you will be responsible for sample receipt and processing and maintaining a clean laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

Carry out processing of soil samples. This is a physical production line-type job which involves routinely receiving and handling crates of soil samples preparing samples for extraction and operating an automated machine which is used to extract PCN from soil samples.
Carry out annual maintenance on the machine and assist with the preparation for the next testing season.
Support testing of new potato varieties for PCN resistance by assisting with the maintenance of pot trials and carrying out a manual method of PCN extraction.
Support potato virus testing as part of the Scottish Seed Potato Classification Scheme by preparing leaf and tuber samples for analysis.
Ensure that duties are carried out in compliance with the requirements of the Quality Management system ISO 9001:2015 and health & safety procedures
Work in other areas of SASA as required.
General Laboratory duties.

Qualifications

Working pattern

This role is a permanent level transfer position.

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive A3 employees.

Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role relevant skills and experience and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).

Selection Process

All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager.

Informal discussion dates tbc.

Further Information

If you have specific questions about the role please contact

Read ourCandidate Guidefor further information on our recruitment and application processes.

Required Experience:

DescriptionJob descriptionAre you an excellent team player who would like to play a key role in supporting the production of healthy potatoes in ScotlandAn opportunity has arisen to join the Virology & Zoology (V&Z) branch within the Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) division of Sco...