Senior Scientist – Microbiology (NGS / Molecular Biology)

ROLE OVERVIEW We are currently looking for a Senior Scientist – Microbiology (NGS / Molecular Biology) to join a leading organisation within the microbiology and applied research sector. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a specialist Microbiology team, supporting the delivery of contract projects focused on Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and molecular microbiology techniques. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering high-quality scientific outputs through a combination of hands-on laboratory work and project management, ensuring all activities are carried out in line with UKAS and ISO standards. The position offers exposure to a diverse range of projects across food and non-food applications within a technically advanced environment. KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Your duties as the Senior Scientist – Microbiology (NGS / Molecular Biology) will be varied; however, the key duties and responsibilities are as follows: Manage and deliver contract microbiology projects, ensuring effective planning, scheduling, and resource allocation Carry out hands-on molecular microbiology analysis, including NGS workflows, DNA/RNA library preparation, and microbial profiling techniques such as 16S metabarcoding Perform laboratory-based activities including sample preparation, sequencing workflows, and data interpretation to generate high-quality and reproducible results Ensure compliance with UKAS and ISO 9001 / 17025 standards, maintaining laboratory documentation, traceability, and audit readiness Support client interactions, including providing technical updates, preparing reports, and contributing to project discussions Supervise and support technical staff, including training, workflow coordination, and day-to-day laboratory activities Contribute to project costing, resource planning, and continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratoryROLE REQUIREMENTS To be successful in your application to this exciting role as the Senior Scientist – Microbiology (NGS / Molecular Biology), we are looking to identify the following on your profile and past history: A Degree or higher level in a relevant scientific discipline such as Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or Biochemistry Proven industry experience working within a microbiology laboratory environment, with hands-on experience in NGS and molecular techniques Strong experience with NGS workflows, library preparation, and microbial data analysis A working knowledge of UKAS-accredited environments and quality systems such as ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 Experience managing laboratory activities, projects, or technical resources Strong communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with internal teams and external clientsKEY WORDS Microbiology / Molecular Biology / NGS / Metabarcoding / 16S / Bioinformatics / UKAS / ISO 17025 / Laboratory / Project Management / Scientific Research