Grassland Trials Officer
Hillsborough
9am- 5pm
Days of work each week- 5 with some weekend and out of hours duty required on site eg time-sensitive grass plot sampling; animal feeding/checking
Main Duties / Purpose of Job / Function of Role
1. Carry out specific day to day duties required in ongoing grassland research studies being conducted within the Grassland & Dairy Research Groups. This will involve working with a group of scientists and technichians to perform research tasks in line with agreed experimental protocols, utilize available resources to implement protocols, coordinating work placement students as required and ensure data is recorded accurately and stored safely in the correct format.
2. Some research projects may be undertaken on commercial farms which may require driving AFBI fleet vehicles.
3. The post will also involve working with large data sets, on hard copy, automatically via field sensors, on databases and on Excel spreadsheets. The jobholder will be required to assist with accurate data collation and storage from a wide range of sources. Excellent computer skills and a working knowledge of Microsoft Excel are required.
4. Liaise with the AFBI laboratory to schedule timely delivery and analysis of grassland and other samples. Assist in preparing trials and facilities for visiting groups and knowledge exchange events.
5. Specific duties will include: read and understand experimental protocols and ensure these are effectively followed on the ground; assist with the day-to-day implementation of research trials, including undertaking measurements and sample collection, as and when necessary.
6. Ensuring all work complies with ISO 9001 in terms of Standard Operating Procedures, risk management and related matters. This will involve working with colleagues to ensure that all calibrations are undertaken as required.
The job holder will be required to collate data and written material for reports as required by scientists
Specific Experience / Qualifications required
7. 2 A’ levels or equivalent- 1 science discipline, equivalent or higher AND 2 years’ demonstrable experience in relevant field
OR
8. 5 GCSE’s including science, maths & English language (Grades A*-C for subjects specified) equivalent or higher AND 3 years’ demonstrable experience in relevant field
9. At least 6 months research experience in conducting scientific studies involving grassland and livestock.
10. Demonstrable experience of statistical analysis of results as required for scientific studies.
11. Have full UK driving licence to be able to undertake the full responsibilities of the role.
12. Able and willing to undertake overtime during weekends, holiday periods, early mornings and weekday evenings on a rota basis. Overtime is a requirement of the role.
To apply send your cv via link