Research Associate- BioProduction
As a team of scientists, farmers, and entrepreneurs, we are on a mission to revolutionise agriculture and address climate change. Through our cutting-edge microbial technology, we are enhancing soil health, boosting crop yields, and sequestering carbon to create a sustainable future for farming. We are committed to empowering farmers and promoting regenerative practices that benefit both the environment and their bottom line.
As a fast-growing agricultural startup, Loam offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment where innovation and passion thrive. We embrace diversity and believe that our collective expertise and shared commitment can make a significant impact on the global agricultural landscape.
Bioproduction Research Associate
Location: Orange, NSW, office based role.
Position Type: Full-time Permanent
At this time we are only seeking candidates with Full Working Rights in Australia with at least 2-4 years of experience in the biotechnology workforce, preferably with biological products.
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join our Bioproduction team. This role is ideal for someone with hands-on industry experience in microbial bioprocessing and a strong interest in supporting microbial product formulation, processing, and delivery method development. The ideal candidate will bring at least two years of relevant biotechnology or bioagricultural industry experience and be eager to contribute to Loam’s mission of improving soil health and carbon sequestration.
This position provides exposure to applied microbiology, small-scale bioproduction, formulation development, and data-driven experimentation within a collaborative, mission-focused global team.
Key Responsibilities
Formulation Development & Innovation
At Loam, we’re tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time with a passionate team dedicated to making a real difference. If you’re eager to apply your skills to a mission that truly matters, we’d love to hear from you.
Loam Bio is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic.
As a fast-growing agricultural startup, Loam offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment where innovation and passion thrive. We embrace diversity and believe that our collective expertise and shared commitment can make a significant impact on the global agricultural landscape.
Bioproduction Research Associate
Location: Orange, NSW, office based role.
Position Type: Full-time Permanent
At this time we are only seeking candidates with Full Working Rights in Australia with at least 2-4 years of experience in the biotechnology workforce, preferably with biological products.
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join our Bioproduction team. This role is ideal for someone with hands-on industry experience in microbial bioprocessing and a strong interest in supporting microbial product formulation, processing, and delivery method development. The ideal candidate will bring at least two years of relevant biotechnology or bioagricultural industry experience and be eager to contribute to Loam’s mission of improving soil health and carbon sequestration.
This position provides exposure to applied microbiology, small-scale bioproduction, formulation development, and data-driven experimentation within a collaborative, mission-focused global team.
Key Responsibilities
Formulation Development & Innovation
- Conduct laboratory experiments to test and analyze microbial formulations and delivery systems.
- Assist in refining and improving existing product formulations and support the development of new delivery methods under guidance from senior formulation staff.
- Support formulation-focused trials, including rheology, compatibility, stability, and performance assessments.
- Perform end-to-end small-scale production workflows: substrate preparation, microbial cultivation, downstream processing (DSP), and formulation of fungal and bacterial strains.
- Conduct stability testing, substrate optimization, and process improvement experiments.
- Perform QC testing on in-house and contract-manufactured products to ensure alignment with Loam’s quality standards.
- Participate in experimental design and execution, maintaining detailed, accurate, and organized data in ELNs or databases.
- Compile data into technical summaries, reports, and presentations to support R&D, commercial, and cross-functional teams.
- Contribute data and documentation supporting intellectual property filings when applicable.
- Assist in scale-up considerations for new and existing formulations, supporting manufacturing strategies to improve consistency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
- Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment, manage consumables, and uphold GLP and biosafety compliance. Support supply chain and logistics activities, including raw material inventory, product counts, and preparation for shipments or repacking.
- Work with colleagues across R&D, specifically with the US Formulations team.
- Contribute to special projects and adapt to evolving priorities in a dynamic environment.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related field.
- At least 2 years of experience in the biotechnology workforce, preferably with biological products.
- Demonstrated laboratory experience in microbial cultivation, bioproduction, or fermentation processes.
- Familiarity with GLP, biosafety protocols, and laboratory quality systems.
- Experience with data documentation, databases, or electronic lab notebooks.
- Proficiency in microbial enumeration, culturing, and maintenance techniques.
- Working knowledge of downstream processing (DSP) for fungal and bacterial systems.
- Working knowledge of practices that involve biological product formulation and stability improvement.
- Experience with substrate optimization, stability testing, and formulation development.
- Ability to operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory equipment.
- Competence in data analysis and use of statistical or visualization tools.
- Familiarity with quality control procedures for microbial products.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a cross-functional and global team.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail in experimental and QC work.
- Problem-solving mindset with the ability to troubleshoot and adapt in a dynamic environment.
- Team-oriented approach and willingness to share knowledge and support others.
- Motivation to contribute to a mission-driven organization focused on sustainability and innovation.
- Personal Learning Budget: Support for professional development and continuous growth.
- Flexible Work Environment: Options for remote work to support work-life balance.
- Impactful Work: Contribute to global efforts in environmental sustainability and agriculture.
- Training and Development: Access to a personal development plan with ongoing training opportunities.
At Loam, we’re tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time with a passionate team dedicated to making a real difference. If you’re eager to apply your skills to a mission that truly matters, we’d love to hear from you.
Loam Bio is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic.