If you’re looking for a placement with some hands-on experience in biotechnology research and you care about the environment then read on, we might have a great role for you.
Mykor is seeking a Research Assistant to work on R&D projects in biopolymer and composite natural materials, composite materials processing, and/or novel processing approaches. It’s an exciting opportunity to experience the fast pace and collaborative environment of a growing startup.
Who are we?
Mykor is an award-winning biotechnology company developing carbon-negative materials for the construction industry. The company’s proprietary custom-engineered insulation products perform like foam but, unlike polystyrene, they are renewable and circular with no compromise on thermal performance and fire resistance. Mykor’s flagship product, the MykoFoam, is an insulating and soundproofing board manufactured with cellulosic waste and fungi-based binders. Our mission is to decarbonise the construction industry by manufacturing carbon-negative materials made from waste resources.
Skills and Qualifications:
● BSc in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Mycology or a related field (experience working with fungi is highly desirable)
● Familiarity with laboratory equipment including but not limited to microscopy (optical, SEM,TEM, XRD, etc.), autoclaves, incubators, laminar flow hoods etc.
● Familiarity with computer-based analytical software
● Excellent verbal and written communications skills
● Ability to work within a mission-driven team
As a Research Assistant you will:
● Work closely with the R&D team to develop and execute R&D strategy, and work closely with the Biotechnology Engineer to deliver the best samples for testing.
● Conceive, plan, and execute R&D tasks with considerable influence and inputs from product development.
● Operate and maintain production equipment according to H&S protocol.
● Study and document growth, physiology, morphology, and general characteristics of microorganisms and communicate findings and procedures through technical reports.
● Perform assays and determinations of organisms and substrates for identification and to determine interactions.
● Research or study chemical composition and processes of living organisms.
● Determine chemical actions and effects on organisms such as the action of foods, drugs, or other substances on plant functions and tissues.
● Be fluent in reading research papers, conducting literature reviews, and preparing scientific and technological project updates, and presenting results for different stakeholders.
● Prepare reports, manuscripts, proposals, and technical manuals for use by other scientists and requestors, such as sponsors and customers.
What we can offer:
● 6-month fixed term research contract
● Salary £20,160 (National living wage)
● Flexible working, 1-2 days of WFH per week
● Pension scheme
● An opportunity to shape the future of our company and build fun and empowering company culture while aiming to make a meaningful social impact
What next?
If you think you can make a real impact on the success of Mykor, we would love to hear from you. Please include a brief note in your application explaining how you think you can contribute to making Mykor a success.
Location
Bristol, UK
Start date: 3rd July 2023
Please only apply if you have the right to work in the UK
Our process
Stage 1. Email your CV and Covering letter to info@mykor.co.uk
Stage 2. First video interview
Stage 3. Second, ideally face to face, interview
Stage 4. 2 References - we won’t ask for this until after offering you a role
Job Type: Fixed term contract
Contract length: 6 months
Salary: £20,160.00 per year
Benefits:
- Bereavement leave
- Company pension
- Flexitime
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Work from home
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Flexitime
- Monday to Friday
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Bristol: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Education:
- Bachelor's (required)
Language:
- English (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
Reference ID: RA
Expected start date: 03/07/2023
