Job Description

Purpose of the Role You will support research activities within the R&D (Biotechnology) Department. You will be responsible for supporting a broad range of research and development activities as well as coordinating with other departments such as Engineering, Raw Materials, Production, Marketing and Commercial, etc. You will primarily be responsible for supporting our Research Scientists by preparing, implementing and collecting data for trials, including to conduct literature reviews, trials and reporting. Please note that this is a laboratory position. Research Assistants are expected to work on experiments in our laboratory and production facilities, including on customer and external site locations. Prior experience in microbiology, livestock husbandry, aquaculture or agriculture preferred but not a requirement. Key Accountabilities Specific activities expected for Research Assistant include but not limited to: - Co-design molecular, microbiological, physical, microscopic, characterisation, analytical, isolation of strains/cultures, and bioassay experiments. - Evaluate and trouble-shoot chemical & biochemical analysis for substrates, products and intermediaries along with research scientists. - Assist in the bioprocesses trials in the laboratory and onsite at the factory. - Utilising mathematical modelling, IT and/or statistical approach to upgrade bioprocess design, data study, and outputs insights. - For routine activities, they are listed as follows

• Preparing samples for multiple series of trials / assays / analyses.
• Conducting and assisting in microbial enumeration trials, including Total Plate Count (TPC), enterobacteriaceae count, probiotic count, etc.
• Conducting and assisting in antifungal activities testing.
• Conducting and assisting in TPC antimicrobial activities.
• Conducting and assisting in microbial isolations, characterisation, optimization etc.
• Conducting and assisting in biochemical assays and chemical analyses.
• Conducting bacteriophage-related assays is an added advantage.
• Collecting data from trials in the laboratory, at the factory and/or ones conducted at external sites.
• Cleaning and preparing experimental materials, tools/equipment and the laboratories itself according to the standard in biosafety and biosecurity guidelines.

Responsibilities This role would focus on supporting Research and Development (Biotechnology) activities. The candidate will support activities at industrial laboratories and on site in the factory or as assigned by the Manager. The core responsibilities focus on the implementation of trials and they are described as follow:

• Conduct detailed literature reviews and present findings.
• Assist in the implementation and data collection of trials and supporting R&D Research Scientists in daily duties.
• Co-design trials according to sound scientific practices with little oversight.
• Collect data with accuracy and strong attention to detail.
• Conduct appropriate analysis and accurately interpret the results.
• Submit detailed trial reports and presentations in English on tight deadlines.
• Any other duties and responsibilities that may be assigned to you by the management from time to time.

Requirements & Person Specifications

• Bachelor\xe2\x80\x99s Degree in a Life Science/ Molecular Biology/ Microbiology/ Biochemistry/ Fermentation Science/ Bioprocess/ Biotechnology/ Bioinformatic or equivalent from a recognised university discipline.
• Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
• Prior experience with scientific research from studies or work experience but not a mandatory requirement.
• Strong computer literacy, including word processing, spreadsheets and presentations.Strong critical & analytical thinking skills. Uses logic when reasoning and makes evidence based decisions.
• Must have attention to detail and strong experience in aseptic techniques.
• Meticulous and detail oriented: collects measurements and designs experiments with great care.
• Experience in statistical analysis and data handling will be a plus.
• Comfortable working in outdoor/semi-outdoor environments.
• Not squeamish about live insects, food waste, fermentation products and by products or unpleasant smells. A practical experience in farming or animal husbandry will be an added advantage.
• Able to lift ~20kg materials.
• Creative and innovative - enjoys designing conventional & unconventional solutions to problems or creating new processes.
• Pays attention to detail: very careful when recording information.
• Able to follow complex instructions. Therefore, he/she should be able to be a quick learner who is driven, self-motivated and able to ask questions and seek clarity.
• Strong work ethic - holds self to high quality standard.
• Good teamwork, communication and general interpersonal skills.
• Exhibits a good attitude and demonstrates professional interpersonal skills to work with people from different backgrounds and nationalities.
• Curious and innovative - comes up with new ideas and solutions.
• Fluent in microbial handling - competent in sterile technique for fungi, bacteria and viruses.

Location This position is primarily based in our company laboratory in the Institute for Bioproduct Development (IBD), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). However, the researcher is also expected to regularly visit and work on our main production facility in Gelang Patah.

• Institute of Bioproduct Development (IBD), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai, Johor.
• Factory Site at SiLC, Gelang Patah, Johor.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Salary: RM1,800.00 - RM2,000.00 per month Benefits:

• Professional development

Schedule:

• Day shift

COVID-19 considerations: Ability to commute/relocate:

• Iskandar Puteri: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)