Senior Microbiologist

**The Department**:
The Microbiology Department is a global function whose primary role is to support all company plants to achieve and maintain microbial free status. Centralised support is provided by way of microbial testing service, hygiene best practice training, implementationof process-based hygiene improvements, data monitoring and trend analysis as well as a proactive research and development programme to introduce and test novel and alternative compliant in can preservation solutions. The team of microbiologists operate andliaise cross-functionally with the Regulatory Affairs, Research & Development, Operations Support and Quality Control teams to drive and deliver key pipeline projects.

**Purpose of the Job**:

- Identify and prevent microbiological contamination issues which may impact the quality of

manufactured products.
- Independently plan and execute technical work programs
- Lead technical projects under supervision.
- Work closely with various colleagues internally
- Provide regular contact to customers.

**Main Accountabilities**:

- Ensure compliance with our Health and safety programs by pro-actively identifying, reporting on and improving safety related issues in the local laboratory area.
- Perform microbiological analysis of raw materials, in process products and finished goods.
- Conduct Biocide Efficacy testing studies in support of the business.
- Culture collection development and maintenance.
- Support the business with microbial safety and quality issues.
- Support with timely investigation of customer complaints and other sources of non-conforming work.
- Carry out Plant hygiene audits in order to identify processes, practices, equipment and raw materials that contribute to microbial contamination.
- Liaise with internal and external contacts as necessary to track and communicate service activity status.
- Develop and maintain awareness in relevant technical fields.
- Provide technical support to operations, R&D, sales, quality and regulatory as required.
- Sample log in and reporting using LIMS system.

**Requirements**:
**Essential**
- Masters or PhD in Microbiology or related field (Biology, Biochemistry).
- Significant experience in a Class II Microbiology Laboratory in the food, pharmaceutical or chemical Industry.
- Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice and Good Manufacturing Practice
- Ability to work independently and within a team

**Desirable**
- Knowledge of preservative efficacy testing and testing for biocides.
- Experience of working in an accredited laboratory (ISO 17025) and Quality Control teams to drive and deliver key pipeline projects.
- Working knowledge of HPLC techniques.