Bioproduction Officer

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 Officer

Location: Orange, NSW

Position Type: Full-time Permanent

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join our Bioproduction team. This is an entry-level, full-time position that offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the production of high-quality biological products. The ideal candidate will be a recent graduate with an interest in the Bioagricultural field and a strong foundation in laboratory techniques.

This role is an opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the entire Bioproduction pipeline. You'll spend most of your time supporting the Bioproduction work-stream, but will also get hands-on experience by assisting the formulations and packaging teams when needed. This means you'll see the product through to its final stage, helping with critical tasks to ensure it's ready for distribution. This cross-functional exposure will give you a well-rounded skillset and a holistic view of the biomanufacturing process from start to finish.

Key Responsibilities:

• Laboratory Maintenance: Provide general technical support (including cleaning glassware, making media, restocking consumables, etc) to ensure operational efficiency.
• Small-Scale Bioproduction: Assist in all stages of small-scale Bioproduction activities, including substrate preparation, fermentation, downstream processing (DSP), and formulation for microbial strains of interest.
• Assay Support: Support Bioproduction experiments, fermentation optimisation, stability testing, library management, and assay optimisation experiments.
• Protocol Adherence: Strictly follow established protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for microbial enumeration and other lab activities to ensure product quality and consistency.
• Compliance: Adhere to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and all safety protocols to ensure a safe and compliant work environment.
• Quality Control (QC) & Data Management: Perform routine product sampling and quality control checks on products and meticulously document all experimental and QC data in databases and lab notebooks.
• Support Supply Chain and Logistics: Assist with inventory management, including performing product and raw material counts, and help with product preparation tasks like repacking and labeling.
• Assist in Downstream Processing & Formulation: Provide hands-on support for experiments aimed at optimising downstream processing and product formulation, while collaborating with the US Product Development team.
• Support Ad Hoc Projects: Provide support on ad hoc projects and tasks as needed, adapting to shifting priorities and contributing wherever additional help is required, including work with the R&D team or visits to external partner sites.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g.Microbiology, Biotechnology, Process Engineering, Biochemistry, or a related discipline)
• Experience: This is an entry-level position; no prior professional experience is required. However, a strong academic background and relevant undergraduate research or laboratory coursework are a must.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in basic laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, media prep, sterile technique).
• Hands-on experience in microbial fermentation is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with downstream processing techniques.
• Basic understanding of bioprocess concepts.
• Familiarity with data collection and processing monitoring

Soft Skills:

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• A proactive and eager-to-learn attitude.
• Strong work-ethic.