Assistant Microbiologist

Company

Our client is an innovative biotechnology company within a larger group operating across four key pillars: Consumer Food & Nutraceuticals, Agri-Feed Premix, Foliar Biostimulants, and Fermentation Technologies. The group specialises in the development of enzymes and bacteria for a range of food, feed, and broader biotechnology applications. The business is forward-thinking and innovation-led, with active operations across applied biotech, fermentation, and product development.

Opportunity

As part of their continued expansion, the company is seeking an Assistant Biotechnologist to support their pilot plant and R&D operations. The focus is on fermenting spent grain to create postbiotic and prebiotic products. This is a hands-on, entry-level role ideally suited for recent graduates in biotechnology, microbiology, or biochemistry looking to gain real-world experience in fermentation and microbial process development.

You will work alongside experienced R&D and production professionals and gain exposure to fermentation techniques, product innovation, and early-stage commercialisation of biotech solutions.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the fermentation of spent grain in the distillery, including inoculating with targeted bacterial strains.
• Support the development and evaluation of postbiotic and prebiotic treatments aimed at improving digestive health.
• Work with the Production and Innovation teams on fermentation trials and process optimisation projects.
• Participate in testing and validation of equipment and microbial strains in a pilot-scale setting.
• Assist with data collection, process monitoring, and reporting results to senior staff.
• Contribute to new product development (NPD) activities, including trials and research tasks.
• Attend internal training sessions and relevant industry seminars or events.

Candidate Requirements

• HND or BSc (preferred) in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Recent graduates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• A valid driving licence.
• Interest or basic exposure to fermentation processes, enzyme production, or microbial applications is highly advantageous.
• Comfortable working in a hands-on laboratory or small-scale production setting.
• Good communication and organisational skills with attention to detail.
• Eagerness to learn and work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Competency with Microsoft Office and standard digital tools.

Remuneration

The starting basic salary is £30,000 pa, depending on experience and qualifications, with accommodation provided and a company vehicle available on the island most of the time. Additional benefits include pension contributions, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive, family-oriented culture that values work-life balance, phone/laptop, and access to professional development and mentorship. The finer details will be discussed with the successful candidate.