Microbiologist

If you are interested in becoming part of FA-Bio's team, please send us your CV and personal statement to info@ fa-bio.net quoting job reference FA_JOB_016 before 28th February 2023.

We will not accept applications submitted in any other way.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Background:

FA Bio (FungiAlert) is a young, growing, and an exciting agri-tech company that has developed world leading technology for understanding soil microbial communities. Our mission is to increase crop productivity sustainably, whilst minimising agriculture’s environmental impact, by discovering superior microorganisms for the development of bio-products. After having secured a seed investment, we are growing our technical team to implement our vision of protecting our natural ecosystems by providing game-changing bio-products for agriculture that can replace chemical inputs.

We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace that harnesses personal development and focuses on excellence. We offer a range of family-friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, etc., to support staff from different backgrounds and personal needs.

Job Title: Microbiologist

The candidate will carry out the assembly of SporSenZ and microbial analyses, including isolation, molecular identification, and cell culture of microbial strains. The candidate will also support research and development projects including maintaining microbial cultures, fermentation, and glasshouse trials. Experience working with microorganisms, in an aseptic environment, and carrying out molecular biology experiments is essential.

Salary:

£28,000 FTE – full-time, with time flexibility.

Location:

Rothamsted Research Centre, AL5 2JQ, Harpenden

Tasks & Responsibilities:

- Participate with SporSenZ production chain, which involves preparing parts, manufacturing and assembling and sampling in aseptic conditions.

- Carry out Microbial Discovery Campaigns and Microbial Library Collection – tasks include making microbiological media, isolating and purifying strains, microbial culture maintenance, identification using molecular biology techniques and data collection.

- Laboratory organisation and maintenance - involving clearing and cleaning of work areas, and participation in lab cleaning duties, as and when required.

- Stocks preparation and management.

- Supports laboratory instruments maintenance, including organisation of services and calibrations.

- Supports research and development projects, for example, by carrying out microbial bioassays for the characterisation of microbial activity both in vitroand in planta.

- Works with ELN and LIMS data systems to ensure data is collected, entered, secured, and maintained in accordance with Company’s guidelines.

- Understands and applies SOPs, COSHH/Risk Assessments, Quality Control policies, Health and Safety, GLP, ensuring procedures are always followed.

Experience Required:

Essential criteria:

- BSc degree or equivalent with a core in microbiology, biotechnology or equivalent.

- At least 4 years working in Microbiology Laboratory, carrying out relevant tasks such as media preparation, microbial cell culture, working in aseptic conditions, using good microbiological practices to limit contamination, etc.

- Molecular Biology experience such as genomic DNA extraction, PCR, electrophoresis, etc.

Desirable criteria:

- Experience working with fungi cultures manipulation, and basic knowledge about fungi growth and morphology.

- Experience working with plants or in glasshouse trials.

- Practical industry or academic microbial fermentation experience is an added advantage.

Skills:

- Good time management & multi-tasking skills.

- The candidate will need to be self-motivated and capable of working independently with the ability to plan and take responsibility for their work using initiative, seeking advice where necessary.

- Team working and effective communication – the candidate will need to demonstrate successful team working skills, adapt to team working practices and develop effective communication skills with all the members of the team.

- Methodical – pays attention to detail, does things carefully and in an ordered way.

- Dynamic - understands the priorities and adapts well to accommodate changes in a start-up environment.

- Excellent data management skills.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: £28,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted or free food
• On-site parking

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Application question(s):

• 1. Do you have a BSc degree or equivalent with a core in microbiology, biotechnology or equivalent?
• Do you have at least 4 years working in Microbiology Laboratory, carrying out relevant tasks such as media preparation, microbial cell culture, working in aseptic conditions, using good microbiological practices to limit contamination, etc. ?

And do you have Molecular Biology experience such as genomic DNA extraction, PCR, electrophoresis, etc. ?

Work Location: One location

Application deadline: 28/02/2023
Reference ID: FAJOB016