Foliar Biostimulants Microbiology Research Assistant

Northumbria University; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Northumbria University is seeking a highly motivated researcher to support GainsBio: Commercialising Stress-Evolved Microbial Biostimulants. You will work within a multi-disciplinary team to de-risk foliar spray formulations by validating stress-evolved plant growth-promoting bacteria on leaf surfaces.

You will perform microbiology experiments, coordinate with chemistry colleagues, and contribute to data reporting for investors and CRO partners under Dr Emma Riley and Dr Ciarán Kelly.

Qualifications

• MSc or MRes in microbiology/biotechnology required.
• Hands-on experience in microbiology lab methods including aseptic technique, bacterial culture and molecular biology techniques such as PCR.

Responsibilities

• Prepare cell cultures and cell preparations of various bacterial strains for formulation and trial work.
• Coordinate with polymer chemistry team leading the formulation work.
• Test viability of cells in candidate formulations, including after storage and tank mixing.
• Test adherence of cells to plant leaf surfaces.
• Assess performance of candidate formulations on cereals and persistence of strains on the plant over time.
• Support development of polymer carrier formulations compatible with standard farm sprayer equipment.
• Prepare for and support controlled greenhouse trials with cereals in collaboration with the James Hutton Institute.
• Record, analyse and report data suitable for investor/partner audiences and CRO partners.
• Contribute to project reporting against UKRI milestones.

Skills

Microbiology laboratory methods

Aseptic technique

Bacterial culture

PCR

Data handling

Education

MSc or MRes in microbiology or biotechnology

Job description

Northumbria University is seeking a highly motivated researcher to support GainsBio: Commercialising Stress-Evolved Microbial Biostimulants. You will work within a multi-disciplinary team to de-risk foliar spray formulations by validating stress-evolved plant growth-promoting bacteria on leaf surfaces.

You will perform microbiology experiments, coordinate with chemistry colleagues, and contribute to data reporting for investors and CRO partners under Dr Emma Riley and Dr Ciarán Kelly.