At Loam, we have the earth in our hands. Our team of scientists and entrepreneurs is united in a mission to realise the potential of microbes to address climate change.

We are dedicated to developing solutions that boost agricultural productivity and benefit the environment. We are developing soil carbon sequestration technology that uses the power of microbes to remove CO2 from the atmosphere and store it long term in soil. Our approach will help remove gigatonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere while also helping farming businesses prosper.

As a start-up with ambitious founders and investors, our work is fast-paced and multidimensional. We are a rapidly-growing team, based in Orange, NSW. We foster a supportive and diverse workplace, where every team member is encouraged to learn and grow beyond their area of expertise.

This is more than just a job — this is our life’s work.

About the Role

The Microbiology Officer will be working to characterise microbial strains utilising molecular and microbial approaches, develop microbial technologies, assist with all necessary preparations for in vitro and in field trials and experiments, assist in the production of microbial inocula, and carry out all laboratory work necessary for the successful execution of the Loam’s R&D program.

Key responsibilities include:

• Characterise microorganisms, such as algae, bacteria, fungi, and their enzymes, and use the knowledge gained to create and develop new and improve existing products, materials and procedures.
• Assist in product development in the laboratory, greenhouse and field.
• Design and execute biochemical, microbiological, and soil-based assays.
• Isolation of biological material such as DNA /RNA / metabolites.
• Align data systems to laboratory processes and support others in systems use.
• Investigate and resolve technical challenges in the laboratory.
• Assist in product enhancement research.
• Recording experimental methods, procedures, observations, analysis, and results in an electronic laboratory notebook.
• Statistical analysis of data and writing technical reports.
• Training and managing casual laboratory technicians.

About You

You absolutely love to work in a microbiological lab handling range of microorganisms and plants with a strong sense of laboratory safety. Operational efficiency and finding resourceful solutions make you tick. You are a ninja when it comes to planning and executing laboratory and glasshouse experiments. Have strong work ethic, highly driven, responsible and accountable team player. You love recording laboratory data precisely and adore google workspace apps. Knows how to write experimental protocols, and where to look for information related to research projects.

Requirements

• Relevant scientific academic qualification, with two-plus years of laboratory experience.
• Proficient in aseptic techniques.
• Experience in using bio-safety cabinets, autoclaves, growth chambers, and microscopes.
• Competent in microbiological analysis, accuracy and attention to detail, and ability to write technical reports.
• Analytical thinker with sound research skills in conjunction with solid Math skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to foster great working relationships in the team.
• knowledge and awareness of safety and operating procedures within the chemical and microbiological lab environment.

Benefits

In the role of Microbiology Officer, you will be supported by:

• A custom professional development package including formal and informal training.
• Regular one-on-one meetings with your manager and opportunities to progress your career.
• Engagement in cross-functional, cross-geographical product teams as you work alongside leading scientists and innovators in an international organisation.
• Sports facilities and gym on-site.
• Meaningful work and a ripper team to boot.

Please note that we are unable to support visa applications for this role, therefore we request that only those with current Australian working rights apply.