Research & Development Associate

NES Fircroft are hiring a Research & Development Associate on behalf of our client who are a leading a global agricultural technology company.

If you are passionate about plant biology and curious about how new herbicides are developed, then this is the role for you!

You will join the Weed Control Research Biology Team, where you’ll play a hands-on role in supporting the discovery and development of novel herbicidal active ingredients.

In this role, you’ll be working in the glasshouse to spray, maintain, and assess a wide range of plant species. Your work will directly support research projects by generating accurate, high-quality biological data that drives real scientific decisions.

What you’ll be doing:

• Carrying out experimental work independently and as part of a close-knit team using both established and innovative weed screening methods.
• Maintaining plants under glasshouse conditions throughout the testing period and handling disposal after completion.
• Accurately assessing plants for herbicidal effects and recording results in internal databases.
• Taking accountability for precision, accuracy, and efficiency in all tasks.
• Supporting a high-throughput workflow and helping to identify issues or non-conformities.
• Keeping records and data fully up to date.
• Contributing to training and continuously looking for ways to improve processes.

What you’ll bring:

• A bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• A good grounding in plant biology; any understanding of weed control or agronomy is a bonus.
• Basic laboratory skills and confidence using Microsoft Office.
• Strong organisational, analytical, and communication skills.
• A detail-focused approach and the ability to work both independently and in a team.
• A proactive mindset, willingness to learn, and solid time-management skills.

You’ll thrive here if:

• You pick up new tasks quickly and enjoy hands-on experimental work.
• You take pride in producing accurate, consistent, high-quality results.
• You value good working relationships and enjoy being part of a collaborative team.
• You’re comfortable with the physical elements of the role, including manual handling of plants, pots, troughs, and trolleys.

If you’re looking to build your career in research biology and want to be part of a team contributing to real-world agricultural innovation, this role offers a great platform to learn, develop, and make an impact.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.