Microbiologist

Flychem; Hyderabad; On-site; INR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

Flychem is seeking a Microbiologist to perform routine microbiological testing and release of raw materials, in‑process samples, and cosmetic actives. You will also support fermentation-derived product lines with culture maintenance and aseptic process support.

Key tasks include environmental monitoring, preservative efficacy testing, media preparation, and strict adherence to GMP and Cosmetics Rules, 2020. Fresh graduates with strong practical microbiology will be considered.

Qualifications

• B.Sc or M.Sc in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or closely related life-science field.
• 0–4 years of laboratory experience; freshers with strong practical microbiology training welcome.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbial limit testing for materials, processes and finished actives using ISO methods.
• Conduct preservative efficacy testing per ISO 11930 on liquid actives and systems.
• Run environmental monitoring and trend results across production areas.
• Monitor purified water systems for microbial load and endotoxin when required.
• Prepare media, perform growth-promotion tests, and maintain reference cultures.
• Document results against batch records and support OOS/deviation investigations.
• Maintain production strains used for ferment lysate manufacture and bank them.
• Prepare inoculum and monitor fermentation runs for contamination and sterility.
• Support aseptic handling and contamination-control in fermentation and downstream areas.

Skills

Aseptic technique

Microbial limit tests

Media preparation

GMP documentation

Cosmetics rules awareness

Education

B.Sc or M.Sc in Microbiology/Biotech

Tools

Autoclaves

Incubators

Laminar flow hoods

Job description

The Microbiologist is responsible for routine microbiological testing and release of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished cosmetic ingredients, along with environmental and water-system monitoring across the manufacturing site. The role also supports Flychem's fermentation-derived product lines, Bifida, Galactomyces, Lactobacillus, and Saccharomyces ferment lysates and related bio-based actives through culture maintenance, contamination control, and aseptic process support.

Key Responsibilities

QC Microbiology

• Perform microbial limit testing (Total Aerobic Microbial Count and Total Yeast & Mould Count) and testing for absence of specified pathogens (P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, E. coli, C. albicans) on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished actives, following ISO/IS methods.
• Conduct preservative efficacy (challenge) testing per ISO 11930 on relevant liquid actives and preservative systems (e.g. hydroxyacetophenone, ethyl lauroyl arginate).
• Run environmental monitoring — settle plates, active air sampling, and surface swabs — across production areas and controlled zones, and trend the results.
• Monitor purified water systems for microbial load and, where required, endotoxin.
• Prepare and quality-check culture media, perform growth-promotion testing, and maintain reference cultures.
• Document all results against batch records, raise and support OOS and deviation investigations, and maintain sample and retention logs.

Fermentation / Bioprocess Support

• Maintain and bank production strains used for ferment lysate manufacture; carry out purity and identity checks.
• Prepare inoculum and monitor fermentation runs for microbial contamination and process sterility.
• Support aseptic handling and contamination-control practices in the fermentation and downstream areas.

Required Qualifications

• B.Sc or M.Sc in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a closely related life-science discipline.
• 0–4 years of laboratory experience; freshers with strong practical microbiology training will be considered.

Required Technical Skills

• Aseptic technique and sterile handling.
• Microbial limit tests and pathogen detection using standard ISO/IS methods.
• Media preparation, culture maintenance, and operation of autoclaves, incubators, and laminar flow / biosafety cabinets.
• Familiarity with GMP documentation practices and awareness of cosmetic manufacturing requirements under the Cosmetics Rules, 2020.

Preferred / Nice-to-Have

• Prior QC microbiology experience in a cosmetic, pharmaceutical, or food manufacturing setting.
• Exposure to fermentation or bioprocess environments.
• Familiarity with endotoxin (LAL) testing, environmental monitoring programmes, or ISO/IEC 17025 accredited labs.
• Awareness of encapsulated/liposomal active formats and their microbiological handling considerations.
• Meticulous documentation discipline and attention to detail.
• Strong aseptic diligence and consistency in following SOPs.
• Ability to flag anomalies promptly and communicate clearly with QA and production.
• Reliability and ownership over routine testing schedules.