Senior Lab Technician (JB1694)

Senior Lab Technician (JB1694)

Germiston, Johannesburg

R25 000 per month, negotiable

Duration: Six-month contract (with possibility of extension)

Overview

The Senior Lab Technician will form part of a Research and Development team who will be focused on optimizing the cultivation of microalgae.

Minimum Requirements:
BScHons/MSc in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry or similar field
Preferably 3 to 5years relevant industry experience in microalgae culture
Proficient in the maintenance of axenic cultures and maintaining sterile culture conditions
Computer literate, proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, specifically Excel, with experience in data collection and analysis
Ability to follow SOPs and make recommendations for changes when necessary; experience developing SOPs a plus.
Experience with basic analytical chemistry methods and microscopy techniques for identification of microalgae cultures is required. Knowledge of analysis of lipids and lipid profile analysis with gas chromatography is a plus
Must be able to work independently and flexibly and to adapt to changing priorities
Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Good communication skills
Strong organizational skills
Ability to work in a team environment
Discretion when dealing with disclosures of sensitive and proprietary information. This contract will include strict non-disclosure term
Duties and Responsibilities:
Responsible for the preparation and maintenance of microalgal cultures for scale-up, up to 10L photo-bioreactors, maintaining sterile and axenic culture conditions
Responsible for running experiments with laboratory scale bioreactors and/or scaled photobioreactors to optimise cultivation of microalgae
Perform testing for various physical, chemical and biological parameters, including, but not limited to:
Perform routine water chemistry analysis
Perform routine measurements for characterizing algae productivity and process yield
Analyze data generated from sample streams
Daily microscopic evaluations of cultures
Identify and characterize bioactive ingredients of interest, gather and present data that can be used for potential commercial scale up.
Make and record detailed observations, analyze data, and interpret results; validate data and ensure careful maintenance and timely entry of data in electronic database
Report on findings and confirming when critical parameters are reached
Development and Implementation of new assays
Prepare samples in spray dryer for offsite analysis
Supervise the preparation of standards and solutions by junior laboratory staff
Perform routine maintenance and calibration of all lab equipment and instrumentation
Maintain a stock of lab supplies, working with procurement to forecast supply needs and order supplies
Assist with training of junior lab personnel
Perform routine maintenance and