Microbiologist

Position Overview:
The Microbiologist will be integral to identifying, isolating, and cultivating native microalgae species for sustainable animal feed production. This role involves lab-based assessments, maintaining microbial cultures, evaluating strain resilience, and analyzing nutrient content and growth parameters under various environmental conditions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Species Identification and Isolation: Sample and analyze local water sources to identify and isolate native microalgae strains suited for high-protein biomass production.
2. Cultivation and Media Optimization: Conduct lab experiments to determine the most effective growth media formulations, focusing on nutrient availability and environmental adaptability.
3. Strain Stability: Evaluate strain stability and resilience under varied environmental factors, such as light, temperature, and nutrient levels, to ensure suitability for larger-scale production.
4. Biomass and Nutrient Analysis: Perform biochemical assays to assess protein content, lipid profiles, and nutrient uptake to ensure compliance with animal feed standards.
5. Data Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed lab records and prepare reports on experimental data, findings, and recommendations for scale-up.
6. Regulatory Compliance and Safety: Adhere to microbiological safety protocols and industry regulations, ensuring a contamination-free cultivation environment.

Qualifications/Competencies/Position Requirements:
Masters degree or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
Experience in algal research, particularly in microalgae cultivation and analysis.
Strong analytical skills and experience with data management software.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a laboratory setting.
Strong analytical skills and experience with data management software.