Access the best 20890+ job openings currently available, sorted by top search terms, locations, and key employers.

Would you like to play a key role in the provision of seed analysis for the Scottish Government, seed trade and farmers.

If so, we are looking for an individual with excellent attention to detail and strong analytical skills to join our Team.

The Official Seed Testing Station (OSTS), SASA, is responsible for testing of all certified seed in Scotland through supervision of Licensed Seed Testing Stations and provision of a testing service to Government and the seed trade. Testing is also conducted for advisory purposes allowing industry and growers to make informed decisions on their seed stocks. Supporting this testing is a research and development programme investigating emerging industry concerns in the form of field and laboratory experiments, development of test methods and health surveys of cereal seed in Scotland.

The OSTS comprises 15 staff a mix of Senior Scientists (Seed Testing Manager/Quality Manager, Seed Pathologist and GMO Manager), Seed Molecular Biologist, Purity & Germination Laboratory Manager, Senior Seed Analysts, Seed Analysts and a Laboratory/Administrative Assistant.

You will work closely with all Analysts and report to the Senior Seed Analyst for the area you are working in or the Seed Testing Manager.

Training is required in different crop divisions and statutory tetrazolium testing to pass UK Certificate of Proficiency in Seed Testing examinations as required by Scottish Seeds Regulations. Training in loose smut (Ustilago nuda) and vigour testing to work towards gaining competencies. Continuous learning for seed identification to identify new seeds and continue to refresh in species already learned.

You will be expected to undertake this training and pass an exam on completion.

• Carry out analytical testing for purity, moisture, germination, thousand seed weight, vigour and for cereals, grasses and pulses included in the Scottish Seeds Regulations.
• Carry out seed pathology tests.
• Ensure evaluation of test material ensuring that International Rules for Seed Testing are applied, and work meets the quality requirement of ISO 17025, ISTA Accreditation and current Scottish and GB legislation.
• Work and train within the QA environment to ensure the validity of results produced.
• Seed sample registration and reporting of results
• support seed testing research and development programme.
• Work in other areas of SASA, as required.
• General Laboratory duties.

• Experience of working in a biology-based laboratory, preferably plant sciences.
• A proven team player who is able to work well with others but also carry out individual tasks as required.
• Good attention to detail ensuring accuracy when carrying out tasks.
• Good organisational skills and ability to use own initiative to prioritise workload.

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%

Job contact :

Name :
Annabella Stirling
Email :
Annabella.stirling@sasa.gov.scot

Recruitment team :

Email :
scottishgovernmentrecruitment@gov.scot