Microbiology Internship

DescriptionAbout usBactobio is a London-based biotechnology company founded in 2020. 40+ scientists, technicians, software engineers, and data scientist form a dynamic team that uses breakthrough technologies in synthetic biology, next-generation sequencing, and machine learning to cultivate the 99% previously unculturable microbes. These microbes constitute the biggest bioresource in life, and our exclusive access allows us to discover novel chemicals that can be applied across a variety of markets. We are impact driven. Our first goal is to solve the growing antimicrobial resistance crisis through novel antibiotics and stabilise global food security through novel natural biodegradable fungicides. To enable this, we use bioinformatics and data-driven modelling to guide exploration at all stages of our pipeline, and to evolve our platform over time.
Key ResponsibilitiesWe are offering an internship to current PhD students interested in exploring life at a biotechnology start-up. Our previous interns come from a range of programmes (PIPS, iCASE, MRC LID) and we have all enjoyed the experience – read about one of our most recent interns’ experience here Please note we are only able to consider applicants that will receive funding for the duration of the internship from their PhD program. This internship will focus on assembling and screening bacterial libraries of potentially bioactive metabolite producers from the Bactobio collection. Depending on the results of the high-throughput screen, this may then lead to chemical identification of bioactive components, and novel candidate secondary metabolites. This role is predominantly based within the Screening team, but you’ll also work with our Bioinformatics and Analytical Chemistry teams to get experience with a variety of techniques across our pipeline.
Skills, Knowledge and ExpertiseThe role would suit someone with experience in:

• Microbiology, especially with an interest to learn more about natural products biology and chemistry
• Antimicrobial bioassays
• Basic data analysis

While prior experience is a plus, there will be training throughout the internship, so a high level of interest in research and life at a biotechnology start-up is also very important
Benefits

• Brand new, modern labs in Central London with dedicated office space, large balconies and 360’ views of the London skyline
• Diverse team of colleagues (check out our website to meet us)
• Weekly team activities including board games, sports activities, and socials on Fridays
• Complimentary breakfast, fruit, tea, coffee, snacks, drinks,...
• Access to 1000s of training courses through Udemy, with an allowance for both personal development and work-related training
• Opportunity to use your skills to help shape our innovative platform

We are a London-based biotechnology startup using breakthrough technologies in synthetic biology, next-generation sequencing and machine learning to cultivate the 99% of previously unculturable microbes. These microbes constitute the biggest bioresource in life, and our exclusive access allows us to discover novel chemicals that can be applied across a variety of markets.
We are impact-driven. Our first goal is to solve the growing antimicrobial resistance crisis through novel antibiotics and stabilise global food security through novel natural biodegradable fungicides.

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