Professional Internships for PhD Students (PIPS) Opportunities
Intern
United Kingdom · Remote
Posted on Sep 29, 2026
Are you a PhD student at a UK university? Join our team for a hands-on internship in next-generation crop research. We host PIPS placements, part of the UKRI BBSRC-funded Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) programme, giving eligible students the chance to gain real-world experience, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to sustainable agriculture. Please note: PIPS internships are only open to PhD students enrolled at UK universities. POTATO TEAMFocus: GM-free genome editing in potatoProject Overview: Work with our genome engineering specialists to develop and optimise gene-editing tools for crop species. You’ll help test methodologies to create targeted mutations in potato.Ideal Candidate:- Interest in molecular biology and biotechnology- Curiosity about tissue culture regeneration and sterile technique- Previous wet lab experience recommendedWhat You’ll Gain: Hands-on training in GM-free genome editing under the UK Precision Breeding Act, plus skills in tissue culture, single-cell isolation, experimental design, and genomic analysis.Work Environment: Fully lab-based (Rothamsted Research). TOMATO TEAMFocus: CRISPR and tissue culture in tomatoProject Overview: Support the development of gene-edited tomato varieties for international markets using our protoplast editing and regeneration pipeline.Ideal Candidate:- Interest in CRISPR/gene editing or tissue culture- Strong attention to detail and record-keeping- Prior sterile technique experienceWhat You’ll Gain: Direct experience applying CRISPR in plant biotechnology and exposure to commercial variety development.Work Environment: Fully lab-based (Rothamsted Research). TOOLS & TRAITS TEAMFocus: Novel genome editing tools and trait engineeringProject Overview: Join a dynamic team developing new editing technologies and exploring engineering of plant traits. Ideal for molecular or synthetic biology students.Ideal Candidate:- Background in molecular/synthetic biology- Experience with DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing, or cloning (Gibson/Golden Gate)- Enthusiastic, creative, and organisedWhat You’ll Gain: Experience in genome editing design, cloning, record management, and scientific communication. Work at Rothamsted’s vibrant research campus and contribute to projects with real climate impact.Work Environment: Fully lab-based. DATA TEAMFocus: AI models for plant geneticsProject Overview: Support our data science team developing artificial intelligence models that predict genetic outcomes to accelerate crop improvement.Ideal Candidate:- Comfortable with coding (Python preferred)- Analytical mindset and collaborative spirit- Bioinformatics or statistics experience a plusWhat You’ll Gain: Exposure to AI-driven plant science, experience handling real -omics datasets, and insight into biotech data workflows.Work Environment: Fully remote, with optional monthly on-site visits for presentations and team lunches. Interested? Join Phytoform Labs for an innovative, hands-on PIPS placement at the intersection of biology, technology, and sustainability. To learn more, complete the form below or contact us directly at apply@phytoformlabs.com.