Senior Analytical Scientist - Biotechnology

  • Edinburgh
  • Abercorn Sinclair

Analytical Snr/Scientist (Biotechnology)



Are you the right candidate for this opportunity Make sure to read the full description below.

Abercorn Sinclair is delighted to present this exciting opportunity with our industry partner MiAlgae, this role will be based at their HQ in Edinburgh.


Founded in 2016, MiAlgae applies leading advances in science and technology to improve food security and reduce the impact of humanity on the planet. The company aims to eliminate reliance on wild-caught fish as a source of omega-3 by harnessing the potential of microalgae as a sustainable and rich alternative source. MiAlgae’s zero-waste solution recycles co-products from food and drink production to grow Omega-3-rich micro-algae, returning clean water in the process.


The role:


Reporting to the Head of Research and Development, you will be responsible for leading the development, optimisation and validation of analytical techniques for MiAlgae’s products and processes.


You will work closely with fermentation and process development teams to develop assays to characterise novel products and feedstocks. You will also work closely with MiAlgae’s Quality team to ensure all in-house analytical processes comply with all relevant standards and regulatory requirements.


Key compounds of interest include lipids and fatty acids, protein, pigments and sugars.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop, optimise and validate robust analytical methodologies for the characterisation of biological products and feedstocks.
  • Work closely with internal stakeholders to scope, design and deliver technical projects with defined success criteria under tight timelines.
  • Drive improvements of the company’s analytical capabilities by identifying and implementing new techniques and technologies.
  • Complete COSHH and risk assessments to ensure safe handling of hazardous chemicals.
  • Present and formally report experimental conclusions and supporting data for internal peer review.
  • Disseminate protocols and train colleagues to carry out novel assays through a mix of written SOPs and practical training.
  • Work with a multidisciplinary team of staff within AGILE project framework to deliver company objectives.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot analytical instruments, performing preventative maintenance and repairs where necessary.
  • Assist the Quality team with routine product testing for specification sheets and product release.
  • Contribute to stability studies to assess product shelf life and degradation.
  • Actively contribute to a culture of continuous capability development through coaching, mentoring and/or developing colleagues within the team and business unit, providing insights into areas of specialism.


Experience and Skills:


  • Proven experience of Gas Chromatography and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography method troubleshooting development and validation.
  • Working knowledge of ELISA and other biochemical assays.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Leadership skills within and across multidisciplinary teams, particularly ability to communicate and translate technical ideas to varying levels of understanding.
  • Use of Design of Experiments for process optimisation.
  • Strong data analysis skills and experience with DataApex Clarity chromatography software.
  • Experience actively challenging and influencing projects and teams to drive results.
  • Experience of line management, training, and supervision of technical staff.
  • Knowledge of basic cell and molecular biology techniques and working understanding of aerobic fermentation.


The Candidate:


We are seeking driven individuals with a flexible approach to work who are keen to make their mark within a rapidly growing award-winning biotechnology company.


The ideal candidate will be educated to educated to MSc. or Ph.D. level in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry or a related discipline and will have a few years of demonstrable industry experience in an analytical capacity, preferably within the biotechnology sector.

You will be an effective communicator with the ability to work independently and efficiently within a team. You will have a positive ‘can do’ approach and a keen interest in the use of biotechnology for the benefit of the environment.


The opportunity:


For the right individual, this is an amazing opportunity to join an exciting young, scaling biotech where you will play a critical role in delivering their current and future products.


In return, you can expect a competitive salary + benefits and the opportunity to work with a team truly committed to developing scalable, sustainable solutions.


For a confidential discussion please contact our retained partner, Keith Tocher at Abercorn Sinclair.


About Abercorn Sinclair


Abercorn Sinclair is a specialist, technical recruitment consultancy based in Edinburgh. We provide bespoke talent solutions across the science & technology sectors.