Job Details

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 SCIENTIST I – PLANT BIOLOGY in 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 agronomic 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.
• Work 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 leverage expertise and capabilities.
• Ability to think out of the box, to shape and lead innovative strategies 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 an approach 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

• Experience working with tobacco plants.
• 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.