Senior Industrial Microbiologist

Bionema Limited; Swansea; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biocontrol innovation company in Swansea is looking for a Senior Industrial Microbiologist to oversee microbial product development. You will lead strain isolation and fermentation protocol design, manage lab operations, and conduct efficacy testing. The ideal candidate will have a PhD and significant industry experience. Join our mission to promote sustainable agriculture through innovative biotechnological solutions.

Benefits

Performance-based bonus scheme

Employer pension contribution

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 5–10 years industry experience in microbial product development.
• Experience in biocontrol, biostimulants, or agricultural biotechnology.
• Proven track record in managing bioreactors.

Responsibilities

• Lead strain isolation and identification of microbial candidates.
• Design and optimise fermentation protocols.
• Plan lab and field efficacy trials.

Skills

Formulation and optimisation

Fermentation and scale-up

Field efficacy testing

Technical documentation

Managing lab personnel

Knowledge of UK/EU biopesticide regulations

Education

PhD in Microbiology, Industrial Biotechnology, or related

Tools

HPLC

MALDI-TOF

PCR

LIMS systems

Data analysis platforms (e.g., JMP, R)

Job description

LOCATION: Swansea, United Kingdom
SALARY: Competitive with Attractive Benefits
HOURS: Full-Time
CONTRACT: Fixed Term
START: October 2025

About Us

Bionema Group, based in the UK, is a leader in biocontrol innovation, creating cutting-edge biological solutions to minimise the reliance on chemical pesticides and fertilisers. With over three decades of dedicated R&D, we provide more than 15 products, including biostimulants, biofertilizers, biosurfactants, and a range of patented microbial biopesticides. Our goal is to replace harmful agrochemicals with eco-friendly, scientifically proven products, thus safeguarding human health, ecosystems, and promoting sustainable food production. Supported by significant UKRI grants and strategic collaborations, we are expanding our reach worldwide.

Position Overview

We are looking for a Senior Industrial Microbiologist to join our R&D team. In this role, you will handle the production, formulation, and application of microbial products, working across various bio-based technologies, including entomopathogenic fungi, nematodes, beneficial bacteria, biofertilizer consortia, and biostimulants. You will manage laboratory and pilot-scale operations, optimise production processes, and support field validation efforts. This key, hands-on position reports directly to the CTO or Head of Innovation Lead and involves close cooperation with the Head of Formulation and Regulatory Affairs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead strain isolation, screening, and identification of microbial candidates (fungi, bacteria,nematodes, actinomycetes).
• Design and optimise fermentation protocols, including media formulation, growth kinetics, and scale-up multiple bioreactors.
• Develop and validate formulation strategies: SC, WDG, WP, SL, encapsulated products (Incapsulex platform)
• Plan and oversee lab, greenhouse, and field efficacy trials with support staff.
• Conduct shelf-life and stability tests under various environmental and storage conditions.
• Ensure rigorous QC and QA protocols across R&D and production workflows
• Supervise and mentor junior microbiologists, technicians, and placement students
• Work with regulatory and commercial teams to generate technical data for product registration and launch
• Support the writing of patents, grant applications, and technical reports
• Utilise tools such as HPLC, MALDI-TOF, PCR, LIMS systems, and data analysis platforms (e.g., JMP, R).
• Handling multiple projects simultaneously.

Qualifications

To be considered for this transformative role, you must possess:

• PhD in Microbiology, Industrial Biotechnology, Plant Pathology, or a related field 5–10 years’ industry experience in microbial product development in biocontrol, biostimulants, biofertiliser or agricultural biotechnology
• Proven track record in:
  o Formulation and optimisation of microbial products.
  o Fermentation and scale-up for commercial manufacturing.
  o Handling multiple bioreactors
  o Conducting field efficacy testing.
  o Writing technical documentation and contributing to product registration.
• Experience managing or mentoring lab personnel.
• Strong knowledge of UK/EU biopesticide regulations is highly desirable
• Familiarity with intellectual property processes and R&D grant-funded projects is a plus.

What We Offer

• Performance-based bonus scheme and employer pension contribution.
• Opportunity to grow into the Head of R&D or CTO role.
• Work on Innovate UK and international grant-funded cutting-edge projects (e.g. systemic
  molluscicides, biofilm-based biofertilisers).
• Purpose-driven mission with global environmental and agricultural impact.
• Collaborative, agile work culture that values innovation, autonomy, and continuous learning.

We are dedicated to the continuous growth of our team members, offering professional development opportunities and support to help you excel in your career.

Our Culture

• We are a science-first, impact-driven organisation.
• Our team thrives on curiosity, responsibility, and innovation.
• We’re looking for someone who wants to build, lead, and leave a legacy—not just fill a job. If
  you are passionate about nature-based solutions and want to change agriculture for good, this
  is the place for you.

How to Apply

Please submit your:

• CV
• Cover letter detailing relevant experience and motivation.
• 1-page summary of past microbial formulation or product development projects to [e-mail]
• Informal enquiries? Contact Prof. (Dr.) Minshad Ansari via LinkedIn or email.

Important Note:Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Candidates who do not demonstrate their ability to meet the essential criteria will not be considered for an interview.

Join us in leading the way in sustainable agriculture! Apply no

Bionema is affiliated with

Location

Bionema Group Limited
Institute of Life Science 1
Swansea University
Singleton Park
Swansea SA2 8PP
United Kingdom