Overview

Rhizocore Technologies is an applied mycology startup working with fungi to increase forest growth rates and carbon sequestration. Rhizocore focuses on the use of mycorrhizal fungi to grow healthier, more resilient forests that are less susceptible to drought and that sequester more carbon. We use our knowledge and library of locally sourced fungi, enabling trees to grow faster, decrease the amount of trees that die after planting and increase the amount of soil carbon sequestration in our woodlands.

Based at the Roslin Innovation Centre in Edinburgh, we are developing novel techniques for applying mycorrhizal fungi to improve the growth and resilience of young trees for ecosystem restoration and commercial forestry.

We closed a £3.5 million seed round in Spring and are moving quickly to scale our sales and business activities in the UK and abroad in order to maximise our impact on the biodiversity and climate crises. We are looking for an experienced and dedicated Laboratory Manager with a background in biotechnology, microbiology or other related field. The post holder must have the Right to Work in the UK, and be able to accommodate flexible working arrangements.

Job Description

This is an exciting opportunity to undertake cutting-edge work in the field of applied mycology and take responsibility for overseeing the daily operations of our R&D laboratory, develop our team and push forward our product development and scientific understanding.

The post holder will oversee the daily operations of the laboratory, manage a team of laboratory technicians and scientists, and ensure the efficient and accurate management and execution of laboratory experiments and achievement of company goals. This role primarily operates within a laboratory setting, with occasional field or international travel work. It may involve occasional exposure to hazardous materials and require adherence to strict safety protocols

Management and Supervision:

• Lead and manage a team of laboratory technicians, scientists, and support staff. This includes weekly management/resource meetings, staff 1:1 meetings and staff review meetings.
• Plan and coordinate work schedules, assignments, and tasks for laboratory team members.
• Provide guidance, support, and training to team members to ensure compliance with laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and quality standards.
• Foster a collaborative and productive work environment by promoting teamwork and professional development opportunities for laboratory staff.
• Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and identify training needs for team members.

Laboratory Operations:

• Oversee and coordinate laboratory activities, ensuring the timely and accurate execution of experiments, tests, and analyses.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring proper functioning, calibration, and adherence to maintenance schedules.
• Develop and enforce standardised protocols and procedures to meet regulatory requirements and quality standards. This includes writing and compliance of SOPs and laboratory Risk Assessments.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials. This includes writing and compliance of SOPs and laboratory Risk Assessments.
• Laboratory stock ordering and account management. 
• Assist in budget planning and resource allocation for the laboratory's operational needs.
• Source and evaluate new equipment, supplies, and technology to improve laboratory efficiency.

Research and Development:

• Collaborate with senior management and senior researchers to develop and implement new methodologies and technologies.
• Participate in the design, execution, and analysis of experiments, as well as the interpretation of results.
• Maintain accurate records of laboratory activities, test results, and research findings.
• Prepare reports, summaries, and presentations for management and customers as necessary

Hours of work: Full time

Contract type: Permanent

Contracted hours: 34 per week

Salary: £45,000 per annum depending on experience

Location: Roslin Innovation Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland

Reports to (position): CEO

Closing date: 15/12/2023

Education and experience

Essential

• A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, or a related field. A Master's or Ph.D. would be advantageous.
• Significant experience (5+ years) working in a biotechnology / microbiology laboratory, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques, equipment operation, and microbiology methodologies. Familiarity with relevant software for data analysis.
• Knowledge of relevant safety and quality regulations.
• Strong leadership, organisational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with team members and management. 

Desirable

• Experience working with fermentation
• Experience or interest in Mycology
• Laboratory Management Training / Education
• Experience working in a startup environment 

Application Procedure

To be considered for the position, applicants must provide the documents listed below. A checklist has been provided as further guidance for what to include:

Document 1: Cover letter

• Please provide examples of your relevant skills, abilities, knowledge and experience to support your application for this role.

Document 2: CV

• Education and employment history
• Contact details for two referees

For any further information, please email us at:

recruitment@rhizocore.com

Kind regards,

The Rhizocore team