Preservation & Applied Microbiology Scientist

Vrieservice; Wirral; Hybrid; GBP 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the FMCG sector is seeking an interim Preservation & Applied Microbiology Scientist. This full-time role located in Wirral entails ensuring microbiologically safe products, conducting tests, and gathering insights within an innovative R&D facility. Candidates should possess a background in microbiology and relevant skills in laboratory techniques.

Benefits

Free onsite parking

Discounted products at staff shop

State-of-the-art laboratory facilities

Proximity to train station

Qualifications

• Background in General Microbiology or Bioscience.
• Knowledge of microbiology methods required.
• Degree in Life Sciences or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the HC business in ensuring microbiologically safe products.
• Conduct practical work and microbiological analyses.
• Contribute to Preservation 2.0 strategic programme.

Skills

General Microbiology

Microbiology methods

Experimental design skills

Basic microbiology techniques

Education

Degree in Life Sciences

Job description

We are currently seeking an interim Preservation & Applied Microbiology Scientist to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple. This role offers the opportunity to become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment.

The position is based at the client's scientific Research & Development facility in Port Sunlight Village, Wirral, easily accessible by train and car. It is a full-time temporary role until September 2026, requiring 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation is competitive, up to £29,719 per annum, pro rata, depending on experience.

The role currently offers a mix of remote and onsite working, subject to business needs.

Role Summary

The primary responsibility is to support the HC business in ensuring microbiologically safe products by design. The successful candidate will also gather external insights on product preservation, microbial incidents, and internal laboratory management.

• Work on projects related to HC products preservation.
• Be a member of the Global Preservation and Applied Microbiology Skill Base.
• Trial and deliver experimental data to support insights, techniques, and technological improvements in R&D microbiology.
• Conduct practical work, tests, and trials at laboratory scale.
• Contribute to the Preservation 2.0 strategic programme.

Main Accountabilities

• Perform practical evaluations of preservative efficacy and ad hoc testing for HC products.
• Capture data accurately using the latest digital tools.
• Coordinate evaluation of preservation technologies, working as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Manage samples, review data, and gather knowledge on HC products.
• Conduct microbiological analyses through third parties or in-house testing.
• Perform microbiology tests such as Challenge tests, TVC, Gram staining.
• Contribute to the scientific component of the Microbiology skill base.
• Assess external landscape on FMCG product preservation and microbial contamination incidents, sharing insights.
• Perform laboratory testing for urgent microbial incidents.
• Support internal laboratory testing and management for HC activities.

Experiences and Skills Required

• Background in General Microbiology or Bioscience.
• Knowledge of microbiology methods.
• Experimental design skills.
• Basic microbiology and laboratory techniques.
• Degree in Life Sciences or related field preferred.

Standards of Leadership

• Accountability & Ownership
• Team Player
• Agility
• Personal Mastery

Port Sunlight Working Environment

• Free onsite parking
• Discounted products at staff shop
• State-of-the-art laboratory and pilot plant facilities
• Proximity to train station, Liverpool, and Chester
• Various site clubs and catering options available