Laboratory Supervisor

Lab Technician/Supervisor

Abercorn Sinclair is delighted to present this exciting opportunity with our industry partner MiAlgae.

Founded in 2016, MiAlgae applies leading advances in science and technology to improve food security and reduce the impact of humanity on the planet. The company aims to eliminate reliance on wild-caught fish as a source of omega-3 by harnessing the potential of microalgae as a sustainable and rich alternative source. MiAlgae’s zero-waste solution recycles co-products from food and drink production to grow Omega-3-rich micro-algae, returning clean water in the process.

The role:

Reporting directly to the Head of Research and Development, you will work as a key part of the R&D team, contributing towards the successful commercialisation of the company’s omega-3 product and the development of future products.

You will support the R&D team with lab upkeep and maintenance, assisting with the preparation of media and stock solutions and the axenic maintenance of cultures. You will be expected to apply your experience and knowledge proactively to troubleshooting and problem-solving.

Duties:

• General lab management upkeep and tidiness, including preparing stock solutions & media, inventory, and waste management.
• Organising preventative and ad hoc maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Strain maintenance and production of cell banks.
• Provide technical support to research projects and staff as required.
• Support laboratory administration duties, including updating records, completing, and reviewing COSHH and risk assessments and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Assist in complying with current health and safety procedures and enhancing the health and safety culture of the laboratory.
• Provide training/support to junior staff.
• Working alongside the Quality department, ensure that the R&D lab is audit-ready. Take ownership of corrective actions raised following internal audits.
• Maintain accurate records of all instrument calibrations and perform day-to-day instrument calibration as per QMS schedule.
• Liaise across teams and departments and ensure robust processes are in place to manage shared resources (personnel and equipment).
• Provide support and cover for the laboratory at their production facility during holidays/sickness/absence/etc.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Experience in inventory control and laboratory maintenance.
• Practical ability in aseptic technique and other microbiological techniques (plating, CFU, culturing).
• Experience working within health and safety procedures and SOPs.
• Excellent record keeping and data recording.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely within a team environment.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Detail-oriented with demonstrated ability to proactively problem solve.
• Experience in Gas Chromatography is beneficial.

The candidate:

We are seeking driven individuals with a flexible approach to work who are keen to make their mark within a rapidly growing award-winning biotechnology company.

The ideal candidate will be educated to BSc or MSc level within a biological or biotechnology-related field with some industry experience managing a lab and demonstrable, practical microbiological techniques. A keen eye for detail and the ability to understand and write technical reports/documents to aid in the process development and in conducting investigations.

You will be an effective communicator with the ability to work independently and effectively within team. You will have a positive ‘can do’ approach and a keen interest in the use of biotechnology for the benefit of the environment.

The opportunity:

For the right individual, this is an amazing opportunity to join an exciting young, scaling biotech where you will play a crucial role in supporting their R&D department.

In return, you can expect a competitive salary + benefits and the opportunity to work with a team truly committed to developing scalable, sustainable solutions.

For a confidential discussion please contact our retained partner, Keith Tocher at Abercorn Sinclair.

About Abercorn Sinclair

Abercorn Sinclair is a specialist, technical recruitment consultancy based in Edinburgh. We provide bespoke talent solutions across the science & technology sectors.