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Scientist - Plant Biology

Southampton, United Kingdom

Contract Type Permanent
Career Level Experienced Professional
Function Research & Science
Salary Range Competitive salary
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Why Research and Development? Overview

Why Research and Development?

We are on a journey to A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World. A world where smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke, have migrated to smokeless alternatives. This is why we are always innovating, experimenting, and delivering new solutions. This is why our R&D and Science department is so important to the business, and we are investing and accelerating our activities to generate new science and innovation. Today, we operate in a broad spectrum of scientific fields including molecular biology, toxicology, and chemistry, and it is that breadth of expertise which fuels the relentless innovation and learning that sets us apart as an industry leader.

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Why BAT?

At BAT, we’re committed to more than just jobs, we’re dedicated to purposeful careers - It's one of the many reasons we have been named as a Global Top Employer for the eighth consecutive year.

We believe that Leadership shouldn’t be confined to titles. It’s a mindset and through our leading Learning and Development programmes, you’ll continuously develop your skills and experience. With our unwavering support, you’ll work in cross functional teams connecting with industry leaders and expanding your professional network.

Join us at BAT, where purpose meets possibility, and your career story unfolds.

A Better Tomorrow

Building a Smokeless World is no small feat—it’s fueled by the collective efforts of talented individuals, each bringing their unique perspective. This is the most innovative chapter in BAT’s history, and you can help shape it.

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Scientist - Plant Biology

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business.  We are on a mission to decrease the health impact of our industry 
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to Be The Change. Come, join us on this journey!

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for a SCIENTIST – PLANT BIOLOGY Southampton

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?  

This role will join in workstreams involving plant genomics, marker development/testing, and gene editing to support the strategic needs of the business. Responsibilities also involve supporting the growth of new biotechnology capabilities by developing tools for efficacy tests.

Plant genetics plays a role in phenotypic traits, it is important to understand how genes interact with one another to develop heritable traits. This creates a need for a fundamental understanding of plant genomics along with environmental factors to produce sustainable crop lines.

Your key responsibilities will include:

  • Design and implement innovative research solutions using molecular and microbiology techniques.
  • Use molecular biology techniques to support the screening, identification, and development of markers for genomic targets.
  • Plant husbandry.
  • Collaborate with key R&D teams to work collaboratively.
  • Collaborate with key external partners for the advancement of capabilities and develop/execution of studies.
  • Explore emerging trends and advances in molecular and cell biology and across Research and Science.

Can this be your future role?

  • Do you have experience of following multi-step protocols to obtain high quality products?
  • What is your experience leading projects to conclusion delivering business relevant results?

What are we looking for?

Experience Required

  • Knowledge of plant husbandry, high quality seed generation, plant transfection, and plant breeding.
  • Knowledge and hands-on experience in cell systems, transfection techniques, protein and DNA analysis, molecular cloning, sequencing and protein purification.
  • Ability to establish relationships and networks with external partners and vendors to use expertise and capabilities.
  • Ability to think out of the box, to shape and lead innovative approaches for projects and tactical initiatives.
  • Effective communicator - encouraging cross functional working and ensuring project delivery on time in full.
  • Experience in interpreting results, implementing new methodologies, and driving direction based on data.

Technical / Functional / Leadership Skills Required

  • Core competencies in problem solving, collaboration, communication, and agility.
  • Has a proactive attitude that ensures project delivery.
  • Accountable for self, internal, and external partners for their deliverables.

Education / Qualifications / Certifications Required

  • B.S./M.S. or industry equivalent level of experience in molecular biology or protein chemistry or biomedical science

BENEFICIAL

  • Knowledge of synthetic biology protocols
  • Experience with microbiological and plant systems
  • Familiarized in gene editing techniques including CRISPR/Cas9
  • Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure)

What we offer you?
•    We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
•    Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
•    Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
•    You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
•    We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes

WHY JOIN BAT?
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

At BAT, we champion collaboration, inclusion, and partnership as the bedrock of our values. We wish to foster an environment where every individual can thrive, irrespective of factors such as gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, as well as diverse perspectives and thinking styles. We recognise that our strength lies in embracing talent from all walks of life, empowering us to develop our culture of inclusivity and better achieve our business objectives.


We view career breaks not as obstacles but as opportunities and encourage everyone, without hesitation, to apply. Through our Global Returners program, we provide support to professionals seeking to re-enter the workforce after an extended absence, be it for family care, parental leave, national service, sabbatical, or starting their own venture.
Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

We take pride in being a Disability Confident Employer. If you need any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to be made during the recruitment process to support you performing at your best, please inform the recruitment partner who will be in touch should your profile be selected for the role you applied for. We are wholeheartedly committed to optimising your prospects of success by making suitable arrangements so that you may showcase your full potential.

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Our Values

At BAT, our values show us the way to bring our purpose to life. Serving as our compass, they navigate every aspect of our path towards A Better Tomorrow™ defining how we innovate, grow, and achieve success while setting high standards for individual achievement and collective progress. Rooted in integrity and collaboration, they empower us as pioneers of change in a world that never stands still ensuring we shape BAT's legacy with confidence and purpose.

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  • Truly inclusive
  • Do the right thing
  • Love for our consumer
  • Passion to win
  • Empowered through trust
  • Stronger together
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Take Control of Your Future with BAT

At BAT, we’re committed to more than just jobs, we’re dedicated to purposeful careers.

We believe that everyone has a place in our organisation. Whether you are seeking mentorship, diversifying your experience through international assignments or embracing innovative work methods, we’re here to propel your career aspirations and unleash your full potential.

We believe in you.
Join us at BAT, where purpose meets possibility, and your career story unfolds.

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“A great thing about my job is how it has allowed me to explore my leadership abilities by working in cross-functional and dynamic teams, while also dedicating myself to innovative research and exploring new frontiers.”

Benefits

At our core, we understand your best work happens when you feel fully supported. Our meticulously
designed reward and benefits package are shaped to acknowledge your contributions and to magnify
your impact. As you grow, so do we.

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Social Wellbeing

Wellbeing is better when it’s shared. Benefits that foster a sense of community and connection among employees. The more time we make to give back and share what it means to live well with the communities around us, the closer we’ll be to them. We encourage positive social interactions inside and outside BAT, enhance collaboration, and create a supportive work environment where employees feel valued and connected.

Emotional Wellbeing

Balancing work and life to help you recharge and stay resilient. Benefits and initiatives that are designed to bolster our employees' mental health. At BAT we're fostering a culture of to help our employees to better manage life’s pressures and build resilience, no matter what life throws your way.

Physical Wellbeing

Good health is the cornerstone that allows everything else in our lives to align. Benefits that support our employees' physical health, expand coverage where needed it and promote healthy lifestyles, reducing stress and boosting overall energy and productivity.

Financial Wellbeing

Peace of mind is priceless, but it shouldn’t cost the earth. Benefits and initiatives designed to assist you in achieving financial stability and security, empowering you to make well informed financial decisions, alleviate financial stress, and enhance your short and long-term prospects.

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