Research Assistant – Analytical Chemistry
Location: Pentlands Science Park, Edinburgh, UK
Salary: £28,000 - £30,000
Contract type: Permanent full-time (40 hours per week)
We are seeking a chemist to aid in the generation and analysis of metabolite extracts from our plant cell cultures.
Role Description
About Green Bioactives
At Green Bioactives we are passionate about improving lives and making a positive impact on the world by developing and commercialising sustainable plant-derived natural products made using our innovative biomanufacturing platform.
Our proprietary Plant Cell Culture Technology has enabled us to revolutionise the way that plant-derived ingredients are produced, using sustainable methods of cultivation without the need to destroy trees or habitats. This means that, in a natural and sustainable way, we can reliably produce ingredients that may otherwise be challenging to obtain at the required volumes year-round.
Everyone at Green Bioactives is driven to do the right thing. We believe in a culture of honesty and transparency, where feedback is considered an opportunity for us to contribute to each other’s professional growth and development. We recognise the value of diversity and are an equal opportunity employer.
We are a highly collaborative team of scientists, technologists, industry experts and entrepreneurs, all united by our mission to protect the environment and revolutionise plant biotechnology.
Position
The “Research Assistant – Analytical Chemistry” will work under the supervision of our “Senior Scientist II – Analytical Chemistry” and will execute various laboratory tasks involved in the production and analysis of metabolite extracts from our plant cell cultures. Tasks will include validating HPLC methods, preparing and analysing samples by HPLC and other analytical methods, and operating and maintaining key laboratory instruments. The role requires meticulous data collection and analysis along with collaboration with other members of the laboratory team and adherence to laboratory safety protocols.
Key responsibilities
Solution and Sample Preparation: Perform routine biomolecule extraction and sample preparation from cultured plant cells using homogenisation, extraction, centrifugation, and filtration methodologies.
Sample Analysis: Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing on a variety of samples using established protocols and instrumentation, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
Instrument Operation: Operate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, such as HPLC, UV-Vis spectrophotometers, and other analytical tools.
Data Collection: Record and document experimental procedures, observations, and results with precision and attention to detail.
Data Analysis: Analyse andinterpret analytical data, identify trends, and assist in drawing conclusionsto support research projects and quality control processes.
Method Development: Collaborate with the Senior Scientist II – Analytical Chemistry and the wider laboratory team to develop, validate, and optimise analytical methods.
Quality Control: Ensure that all testing procedures meet agreed quality standards and report any deviations or anomalies.
Documentation: Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments, procedures, and results using the company’s electronic laboratory notebook in accordance with company standards.
Laboratory Safety: Adhere to and promote a culture of laboratory safety, following established safety protocols and guidelines and actively contributing to health and safety risk assessments.
Inventory Management: Assist in maintaining laboratory supplies, reagents, and chemicals, and ensure their proper storage and organisation.
Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to support ongoing research projects, troubleshoot issues, and share insights and findings.
Training and Development: Participate in training sessions and seek continuous learning opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge in analytical chemistry.
Qualifications and skills
Essential criteria:
BSc in Chemistry (or a related field) or 4+ years’ relevant experience.
Strong foundation in fundamental analytical chemistry principles.
Knowledge and understanding of analytical chemistry techniques including HPLC and other chromatography methods, UV-Vis spectroscopy and wet chemistry methods.
Experience accurately weighing materials.
Practical experience in extracting organic material from aqueous phase using liquid-liquid extractions.
The ability to accurately follow protocols and procedures.
Strong organisational skills.
Excellent attention to detail.
Computer literate.
Effective communication and teamwork skills.
Willingness to learn, adapt, and take on new challenges.
Commitment to laboratory safety and best practice.
Desirable criteria:
Practical experience in HPLC, mass spectroscopy and bioassays.
Experience in statistical analysis and experimental design.
Analytical method development experience.
Familiarity with analytical software and data analysis tools including OpenLab software.
Experience using electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) or electronic laboratory information management system (eLIMS) software (ideally Labguru).
Experience working under a quality management system.
Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
Understanding of regulatory requirements in the chemical industries.
Additional information
Job Title: Research Assistant - Analytical Chemistry
Job Location: Pentlands Science Park, Edinburgh, UK
Job Type: Permanent, full-time
Hours of Work: 40 hours per week worked Monday to Friday including a paid lunch break of up to 1 hour per day. Flexibility around the core working hours of 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Salary: £28,000 - £30,000 per annum depending on experience.
Benefits: 33 days holiday (pro-rated, inclusive of 8 public holidays), pension scheme, EMI share options.
Right to Work in the UK: Essential.
References: To be made available upon request.
At Green Bioactives, we value diversity and are committed to promoting equality of opportunity and eliminating discrimination. We offer support and make reasonable adjustments to facilitate full participation in the recruitment process. Please inform us of any requirements you may have, and we will consider reasonable adjustments.