If you’re passionate about wine science and excited to play a hands-on role in vineyard and winery research, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. Join our dedicated team at the Wine Innovation Centre in NIAB, East Malling, where we’re making a mark in the exciting world of wine research.
As a Research Assistant, you’ll work in our collaborative viticulture and oenology team within the Crop Science and Production Services department. This role gives you the chance to contribute to diverse and impactful wine and vineyard research projects, working alongside experts in the field and partnering with universities, industry leaders, and international research institutes. This is a unique opening for anyone looking to build a career in wine science!
Key duties
In this role, you will:
- Maintain our winery and laboratory equipment, ensuring efficient and cost-effective use of resources.
- Collect and interpret data on grape juice and wine, producing reports to support research projects.
- Use statistical analysis to uncover insights from lab and wine data.
- Support the team throughout the winemaking process, especially during harvest.
- Contribute to scientific publications, advancing the field of viticulture and oenology.
- Keep our winery and laboratory safe, clean, and welcoming.
- Occasionally support other crop research teams, embracing our collaborative approach.
What to expect in your work environment
This role offers a dynamic, hands-on work environment that balances laboratory, vineyard, winery, and office-based activities. Due to the seasonal nature of grape harvest and winemaking, there may be some limitations on annual leave during peak periods, though early planning is encouraged to accommodate requests. You’ll have opportunities to work outdoors in the vineyard, adapting to various weather conditions, and to contribute actively in both the lab and winery settings. The role involves regular travel to Niab East Malling and partner vineyards, as well as occasional manual handling of supplies (up to 20kg). Some exposure to lab chemicals may occur, always in a safe and controlled setting. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys a balance of technical and physical work in a vibrant, collaborative setting.
About you
We’re looking for a proactive and enthusiastic team player who brings both skills and passion to the role. Here’s what we’d love to see:
Essential Requirements:
- A BSc in Food Science, Viticulture and Oenology, Chemistry, or a related science field, or equivalent qualifications/experience.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency with IT tools, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, document sharing, and statistical analysis.
- Excellent numeracy and data management skills, with a keen eye for detail.
- Problem-solving skills and an analytical approach.
- Practical laboratory experience.
- A driving licence or reliable access to transport, enabling regular travel to partner vineyards.
Desirable Requirements:
- Experience in wine, beverage, or food production.
- Foundational science knowledge relevant to the role.
- Data collection and statistical analysis experience.
- Report writing experience.
Location
The role is based at East Malling, Kent, ME19 6BJ. East Malling is three miles from junction four of the M20, with plenty of free on-site parking. Niab East Malling can easily be accessed by the London Victoria to Dover (via Ashford International) rail route via West Malling station. Alternatively, exit the train at the East Malling station and take the short walk onto site.
Benefits
Benefits include 25 days’ holiday plus public holidays and 3 days off during the Christmas period, flexible working, generous sick pay, attractive pension scheme, income protection, life assurance, employee discount scheme, free on-site parking.
