Senior Research Scientist - Environmental Microbiology

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Flexible hours

Health, dental and vision coverage

Retirement plan

Professional development funding

Access to analytical resources

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Environmental Microbiology to lead remote investigations into microbial ecosystems and their environmental applications. You will analyze samples, design experiments, and interpret results to advance understanding of microbial functions in diverse ecosystems.

The role requires a PhD in Environmental Microbiology or related field, 5+ years of post-doctoral/industry experience, and strong bioinformatics skills (QIIME2, Mothur, R).

Qualifications

• PhD in Environmental Microbiology, Molecular Ecology, Biology, or related field.
• 5+ years post-doctoral or industry research experience.
• Experience with molecular techniques and microbial analysis methods.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics tools for microbial genomics and metagenomics (QIIME2, Mothur, R).
• Strong understanding of environmental processes and microbial ecology.
• Proven ability to design, execute and manage independent research projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, especially for publications.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on microbial communities in soils, water, and air.
• Design and execute molecular experiments (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, sequencing).
• Analyze microbial community structure with bioinformatics and statistics.
• Study microbes' roles in biogeochemical cycles and remediation.
• Develop protocols for microbial cultivation, isolation, and characterization.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and publish findings.
• Prepare manuscripts for high-impact journals and present at conferences.
• Manage budgets and mentor junior researchers or technicians.

Skills

Molecular techniques

Bioinformatics

Environmental microbiology

Remote research

Academic writing

Education

PhD in Environmental Microbiology

Tools

QIIME2

Mothur

R

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished environmental research institution, is seeking an experienced Senior Research Scientist specializing in Environmental Microbiology. This role is designed for a remote professional who will lead investigations into microbial ecosystems, their roles in environmental processes, and their potential applications in bioremediation and sustainable technologies. You will analyze complex environmental samples, design and conduct experiments, and interpret results to advance our understanding of microbial functions in diverse ecosystems. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in microbiology, molecular ecology, and bioinformatics, with a proven ability to manage research projects independently. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to critical environmental research from a remote location, making a significant impact on global sustainability efforts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on understanding microbial communities in various environmental matrices (soil, water, air).
• Design and execute experiments utilizing molecular techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, sequencing).
• Analyze microbial community structure and function using bioinformatics tools and statistical methods.
• Investigate the role of microbes in biogeochemical cycles and environmental remediation processes.
• Develop and optimize protocols for microbial cultivation, isolation, and characterization.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate findings into broader environmental studies.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact scientific journals.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Manage research budgets and mentor junior researchers or technicians.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Environmental Microbiology, Molecular Ecology, Biology, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience.
• Extensive experience with molecular techniques and microbial analysis methods.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics tools for analyzing microbial genomics and metagenomics data (e.g., QIIME2, Mothur, R).
• Strong understanding of environmental processes and microbial ecology.
• Proven ability to design, execute, and manage independent research projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience working effectively in a remote research environment.
• Demonstrated publication record in reputable scientific journals.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and research grant opportunities.
• Fully remote work arrangement with flexible hours.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous contribution to a retirement savings plan.
• Funding for professional development, training, and conference participation.
• Access to advanced analytical and computational resources.
• Opportunity to contribute to impactful environmental research.