
R&D Microbiologist - Microbial Phosphate Solubilization - Delmas
- Delmas, Mpumalanga
- Permanent
- Full-time
- A BSc hons degree in microbiology or biotechnology or related is essential for this role.
- Previous experience having worked in a microbiology laboratory within any industry is preferred for this role.
- Previous experience having worked in research and development (R&D) microbiology focused on investigating microorganisms and their applications in various fields.
- The successful candidate must know how to do serial dilutions and be able to operate a microscope.
- Strong analytical ability and ability to interpret results.
- The person must be organised and results driven.
- The person must have good communication and be able to work in a team.
- Handling all microbiological functions on new and existing applications for the local and international market.
- Researching into mode of action, production, and formulation of microbial phosphate solubilizing inoculants.
- Isolating and screening of various microorganisms for their potential to solubilize phosphates.
- Handling growth medium optimization for selected phosphate solubilizing isolates.
- Improving shelf life of phosphate solubilizing inoculants.
- Screening formulated inoculants to determine reduction in viability over time.
- Producing inoculants through liquid fermentation (laboratory scale).
- Assisting in upscaling fermentation technologies to commercial volumes.
- Conducting ongoing improvements of fermentation processes, growth medium and product formulation.
- Conducting quality control of incoming and on-site produced phosphate solubilizing inoculants according to approved procedures per product specification.
- Testing efficacy of inoculants through pot trials and assisting with trial protocol setup for field trials as well as testing compatibility of produced inoculants with other agriculture products.
- Determining survival rate of inoculants on seed and improving on survival.
- Maintaining GLP, GMP and GDP in the microbiology laboratory and production facility.
- Interpreting results and generate accurate, analytical and microbiological reports according to specified methods and procedures.
- Keeping up to date with scientific and research developments into phosphate solubilizing inoculants.
- Preparing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Maintaining and preserving all cultures according to standard operating procedures.
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