Fermentation Scientist (Microbiology)

Hypha Discovery Ltd; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Hypha Discovery Ltd in Milton Park, Abingdon, is seeking an energetic microbiologist to join the Biocatalysis Group. You will design, execute and support microbial fermentation and biocatalysis processes, while contributing to laboratory operations, strain management and R&D programmes.

You will perform shake‑flask fermentations, work with enterobacteria and actinomycetes, and develop whole‑cell biocatalysis.

Qualifications

• Degree (PhD preferred) in microbiology or related field.
• Proven laboratory fermentation experience.
• Experience with enterobacteria or actinomycetes is advantageous.
• Essential: stirred-tank bioreactor operation experience.
• Strong knowledge of laboratory quality systems and HSE compliance.

Responsibilities

• Perform and optimise microbial fermentation in shake flasks.
• Work with wild-type and recombinant microorganisms for biotransformations.
• Conduct whole cell biocatalysis experiments.
• Maintain and develop strain culture collections of bacteria and fungi.
• Support fed-batch and small-scale bioreactor processes (1–19L).

Skills

Laboratory skills

Multitasking

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in microbiology

Tools

Bioreactor operation

Job description

We are looking for an energetic and proactive microbiologist to work within the Biocatalysis Group designing, executing and supporting microbial fermentation and biocatalysis processes, while contributing to laboratory operations, strain management, and R&D programmes. The role combines hands‑on experimental work with operational and technical responsibilities, including general microbiology, shake‑flask and stirred‑tank bioreactor fermentations, and recombinant enzyme and whole‑cell biocatalysis.

This laboratory position is based on site in Milton Park, Abingdon.

The role

• Perform and optimise microbial fermentation in shake flasks
• Work with wild‑type and recombinant microorganisms for biotransformations
• Conduct whole cell biocatalysis experiments
• Maintain and develop strain culture collections of bacteria (enterobacteria & actinomycetes) and fungi
• Support fed‑batch and small‑scale bioreactor processes (e.g., typically using vessels between 1-19L)

What are we looking for?

• Degree (PhD preferred) in microbiology or a related field
• Proven laboratory experience in microbiology and fermentation
• Desirable skills and experience with working with enterobacteria (e.g., recombinant E. coli strains and occasionally Class II pathogens), soil bacteria (e.g., actinomycetes), or fungal systems
• Experience with stirred‑tank bioreactor operation is essential.
• Experience with whole cell biocatalysis would be an advantage, but all training will be provided
• Strong understanding of laboratory quality systems and HSE regulatory compliances
• Ability to manage multiple projects in parallel while meeting tight deadlines
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams

Applicants must already have permission to live and work in the United Kingdom.

About Hypha

Hypha Discovery is a specialist CRO supporting pharmaceutical and agrochemical companies worldwide through the production of metabolites and late‑stage derivatives of drugs and agrochemicals in discovery and development.

We are also experts in in vitro metabolite profiling/identification, and possess a wealth of experience in the production, purification and structure elucidation of natural products.