In a modern world facing unprecedented global challenges, such as food security and the need to feed a rapidly growing population, the Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement MSc program offers a comprehensive introduction to the Ph.D. in Plant Molecular Genetics. We provide essential training for graduate students to tackle these challenges, either by pursuing a degree or entering the plant breeding industry.
Career Paths in Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement (MSc)
But as Next Generation Infrastructure (NGI) Construction Director Josh Ball proves, that’s not the only opportunity to make a real difference in your career.
“Prior to my master’s degree, I studied biology at Liverpool John Moores University, and my interest in plant science and genetics led me to take up various research assistant positions at John Innes University during the summer. “I’m here,” explains Josh, who attended Plant Genetics. In 2015 he obtained his Crop Improvement (MSc).
“After completing my undergraduate studies, I worked as a research assistant with Dr. Rachel Wells. That’s when I learned about the Master’s degree and was encouraged to apply.”
New admissions start in late September each year and we invite applications from both British and international students with a 2:1 Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or Plant Biology or equivalent.
The one-year MSc degree is awarded by the University of East Anglia, but is exclusively delivered by the John Innes Center, with significant support from the UK plant breeding industry. This allows students to access the same student services and support as other UEA students, but with the benefit of unique real-world work experience from the start of their degree.
In addition to the core teaching model, students undertake six months of research under the supervision of senior scientists from the John Innes Center or other laboratories at Norwich Research Park, the Earlham Institute or the Sainsbury Institute. Work on laboratory-based research projects.
“I had a really great time on the course,” Josh says. “I enjoyed the wide range of topics and was able to further my knowledge in the field. It was also great to meet other students interested in plant science.
“My favorite part was completing a research project in collaboration with one of John Innes’ groups that focused on the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) symbiosis of lupine. I was very happy and it led me to the field of bioinformatics.
“Overall, this course has given me a wealth of transferable skills and knowledge that will help me advance in my career, first to further study bioinformatics and then to work at the Earlham Institute.” became.”
But earning a master’s degree didn’t mean Josh’s career would be limited to research.
“From there, I wanted to contribute to the advancement of science in a different way and decided to move into a project management role, which has led to my current role,” says Josh, who rejoins the John Innes Centre in April 2024 as a Construction Officer.
Josh is currently working as part of a team on the Next Generation Infrastructure (NGI) program. The program, funded by UKRI, is an exciting project that aims to transform and expand the scientific capacity of the John Innes Center and Sainsbury Research Institute over the coming years. Learn more about his Next Generation Infrastructure program.
“The experience and knowledge of the ongoing research at Norwich Research Park that I gained during my master’s degree, and the range of experiences and opportunities that I gained during my master’s degree, have given us the confidence to provide world-class facilities for our staff here. I hope it will be useful in your work.”
Apply now for our Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement (MSc) course here: https://www.jic.ac.uk/training-careers/postgraduate-opportunities/plant-genetics-crop-improvement/
Josh Ball, NGI Construction Officer