Be part of something bigger.

Doing things differently.

Novel ProductDevelopment Scientist in Smart Horticulture (KTP Associate)

£30,000 - £35,000 per annum (pro rata)

Fixed Term Contract (24 Months)
In-Person working at Flowerbx, London with some travel and working expected at NTU Brackenhurst Campus

About the Role

This exciting and highly innovative project aims to develop a pioneering, sustainable supply chain in the cut flower industry. The project offers an excellent chance for the academic team to contribute to societal and environmental well-being by reducing carbon emissions, conserving water, and curbing pollution. The partnership with FLOWERBX will provide an opportunity to translate extensive research and expertise into practical solutions that directly benefit the flower industry. The role will oversee the entire project by coordinating technical aspects, efficiently managing resources, and ensuring timely deliverables.

Qualifications: 

• PhD in Horticulture or relevant subject such as Plant or Crop Science. Alternatively, candidates with a relevant Masters’ degree may also be considered, especially if they have extensive research experience and expertise in Smart Horticulture technologies. 
• Strong experience in experimental design, data collection, data analysis and previous involvement in research teams, particularly in the field of protected environment horticulture, to facilitate rapid project integration
• A good understanding of innovative technologies in Smart Horticulture and an understanding of supply chain and logistics operations, as well as knowledge of platform driven markets in the flower industry.
• Good knowledge of data science (AI, sensors, IoT)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

This is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership funded through Innovate UK and FLOWERBX.  It is essential you understand how KTP works and the vital role you will play if you secure this position. Read more about the scheme here: www.ktp-uk.org

About FLOWERBX

FLOWERBX is a luxury flower delivery business, offering incredible product quality and immaculate presentation through a sustainable business model. Launched in 2016, FLOWERBX has grown 59% year-on-year and delivers to customers (direct-to-consumer and business-to-business) throughout the UK and US. FLOWERBX have worked with several luxury brands, hotels and restaurants, including Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Net-a-porter, Corinthia London and The Ritz.

Sustainability is a core operating principle for FLOWERBX. From the cut-to-order business model, local growers, FSC certified packaging, use of electric vans in dense areas, to offsetting carbon for our workforce.  We became carbon neutral in 2021, with goals of becoming a B-Corp in 2024 and offsetting our carbon footprint by 200% in 2024.

Company Values

We Strive for Perfection - We do whatever it takes to win and commit to the highest standard in all our behaviour and actions. We have an unwavering focus on perfection in every detail, constantly looking for ways to go above and beyond, continuously improving our product, process, and ourselves. We get there through a mix of grit, determination, sound judgement, and by holding ourselves accountable to our promises.

We Do the Right Thing - We do what's right in every action we take and in every decision we make. This means:

• Supporting each other as people and as teammates
• Empathising with customers to always put ourselves in their shoes
• Operating our business sustainably and responsibly, leading the industry by example

Other Benefits

• A monthly flower subscription and discounted products
• Pension contribution
• Private health and dental care
• Day-off for your birthday
• Time off to support your favourite charity

Come and be part of our success.  Apply today.

Additional Information

• Initial 2 year contract with Nottingham Trent University, with potential pathway to ongoing employment with FLOWERBX.
• Full-Time (40 hours per week)
• Salary (£30k-35k per annum)
• Personal support and mentoring delivered by partnership of leading NTU academics and Innovate UK
• £4,000 training budget and 10% of your time dedicated to your own personal development and the potential for further qualifications.
• Although employed by NTU, the role will be based at FLOWERBX in London. There will be regular travel and working expected between NTU Brackenhurst Campus and FLOWERBX.

Questions? We recommend you get in touch with Professor Chungui Lu, Professor in Sustainable Agriculture at Nottingham Trent University (chungui.lu@ntu.ac.uk)

Please note if you’re applying for this position, you should not have previously been employed as a KTP Associate.

Safe and Inclusive

At NTU, we continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports and celebrates the diverse voices and experiences of our students and colleagues. We welcome the unique contributions that you can bring and we encourage people from underrepresented communities and backgrounds to apply to join our team.

Please note that unfortunately, this role has been assessed as ineligible for sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration points-based immigration system. However, applications are welcome from candidates who do not currently have the right to work in the UK, but who would be eligible to obtain a valid visa via another route.  Please consult the Home Office website for further information.

Please note that this role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) and successful applicants will be asked to declare any unspent criminal convictions.