POSITION OVERVIEW
Our mission is: AI defined ingredients that don't cost the earth.
Our processes span two world-changing technologies, integrating synthetic biology and AI to streamline R&D and increase success.
We are growing our Science team and are looking for a Laboratory Technician who is experienced in bacterial microbiology and fermentation. You should possess experience working in a research laboratory, working knowledge of bacterial cell culture, and a passion for efficient lab operations. The Laboratory Technician will support the effective and efficient running of the lab and will initially report directly to our Chief Scientific Officer. Twig is building a talented team of forward-thinking, ambitious problem solvers and we are looking for talented scientists who are driven to grow and push the boundaries on this journey with us.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Where possible, we provide flexible working arrangements and value a positive work-life balance.
Early applications encouraged. We will begin interviews based on those received by 3rd October.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
* Supporting the effective execution of laboratory experiments
* Setting up, monitoring and supporting fermentation runs in our bench-scale bioreactors and bespoke scale-down bioreactor array
* Supporting the successful execution of multiple experiments in parallel through all stages of the protocol, including observing and monitoring robotic systems, loading and unloading plates, and assisting in the preparation and performance of assays.
* Precisely following strict SOPs, recording progress and reporting outcomes diligently
* Preparing laboratory equipment for use in experiments, including but not limited to liquid-handling robots, PCR machines, bioreactors, incubators, colony pickers, centrifuges, fridges and freezers
* Supporting efficient laboratory operations
* Maintaining lab cleanliness, supplies and tidiness (cleaning, calibrations, reagent prep and disposal, waste disposal etc.)
* Supporting ordering of laboratory consumables
* Assisting in maintaining laboratory equipment and equipment records within laboratory areas, including liaising with third parties where necessary
* Supporting laboratory health and safety requirements
* Additional ad-hoc duties as required
EXPERIENCE/TECHNICAL SKILLS
Your core skills & qualifications:
* 2 years practical lab experience or relevant undergraduate degree with extensive laboratory-based component
* Knowledge and understanding of aseptic techniques and bacterial culture, including an understanding of microbial bioprocess parameters
* Excellent attention to detail
* Ability to accurately follow strictly defined protocols and procedures, record and communicate information precisely
* Ability to perform mathematical calculations
* Familiarity with standard spreadsheet and word-processing software applications
* Communication, teamwork and interpersonal skills
Preferred skills:
* Working knowledge of bacterial fermentation
* Previous experience of scale-down fermentation and fermentation techniques
* Molecular biology techniques including bacterial cloning and PCR
* Previous use of electronic lab notebook software
* Working knowledge of python
Personality attributes:
* Successful candidates will be able to provide examples to demonstrate alignment to our values.
* The ideal candidate is excited at the prospect of joining a synthetic biology sustainability-focused start-up and enjoys working within a fast-paced team environment.
VALUES
Strive to be better
We know what we're here to do – bioengineer better.
And we want to get our products out of the lab and into everyday life – fast.
So, we're open about what's going well and what isn't, and what's needed to put it right.
We've got the energy and ability to get it done, and we celebrate the wins.
Cultivate a forest
We believe in collective strength and win-win relationships with partners.
Where trust and respect are just as important as delivering excellence.
We maximise opportunities to advance our expertise and the industry.
Developing future focused technologies and impactful ingredients.
Positively restless
Science doesn't stand still – twiglets don't want it to.
We pioneer change, and value new ideas and constructive challenge.
We're determined to make things better.
Along the way, we do the right thing for each other and the planet.
Together we enjoy the ride
We work together and have fun as a team.
It's not just about the end game.
We're always ready to roll up our sleeves and help each other out.
Or simply offer a cuppa and a chat – twiglets stick together.