Microbiologist

Job Description – Microbiologist (QC & R&D) Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Microbiologist with strong applied skills in both quality control (QC) and formulation analysis (R&D). The role involves ensuring contamination-free production across 200 L–1000 L fermentation systems, while also running lab-scale trials to evaluate which formulations deliver the best microbial performance and product consistency. The candidate must be able to design experiments, interpret data, and provide management with actionable recommendations.

Key Responsibilities

Quality Control (QC)

• Perform routine CFU counts, dilution plating, and microbial purity checks for fermentation batches.
• Conduct swab testing on tanks, piping, RO water systems, and production areas.
• Monitor RO water quality (TDS, microbial counts, sanitation cycles).
• Validate CIP/SIP cleaning effectiveness before production runs.
• Detect contamination early via pH shifts, microscopy, odor, and foam profile changes.

Formulation & R&D Analysis

• Design and conduct comparative trials to evaluate different microbial formulations, carriers, or nutrient mixes.
• Assess microbial viability, stability, and performance across storage and application conditions.
• Analyze batch-to-batch variability and recommend process improvements.
• Link lab findings with field trial performance (e.g., tillering, plant growth, yield indicators).
• Document results in structured reports and present findings to management.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain audit-ready QC logs, R&D trial records, and contamination reports.
• Follow strict SOP discipline across QC and R&D workflows.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of microbiological monitoring and product development.

Team Contribution

• Train and mentor junior staff/technicians on aseptic practices and QC methods.
• Act as the microbiology lead for troubleshooting contamination events and advising on formulation success.

Qualifications

• Education: M.Sc. / Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Plant Pathology, or related life sciences.
• Experience: Minimum 2–4 years in industrial microbiology, fermentation QC, or product development.
• Technical Expertise:
• Proven ability in CFU counting, swab testing, and RO monitoring.
• Hands-on experience with fermentation systems (100–1000 L).
• Strong skills in designing small-scale experiments, analyzing data, and interpreting results.
• Familiarity with statistical tools (e.g., Excel, Prism, SPSS) for data analysis.
• Preferred: Prior experience in biofertilizers, probiotics, or fermentation-based agri/biotech products.

Key Attributes

• Analytical mindset: can move beyond “test results” to actionable insights.
• Strong documentation and reporting discipline.
• Proactive in solving contamination issues and improving formulations.
• Capable of working independently and communicating effectively with production and field teams.

Location: Lahore, Harbanspura Reporting To: CEO Employment Type: Full-time

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Rs80,000.00 - Rs100,000.00 per month

Education:

• Master's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Microbiology: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person