Laboratory and Research Associate

About Loam:

At Loam, we have the earth in our hands. As a team of scientists, farmers, and entrepreneurs, we are on a mission to revolutionize agriculture and address climate change. Through our cutting-edge microbial technology, we are enhancing soil health, boosting crop yields, and sequestering carbon to create a sustainable future for farming. We are committed to empowering farmers and promoting regenerative practices that benefit both the environment and their bottom line.

As a fast-growing agricultural startup, Loam offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment where innovation and passion thrive. We embrace diversity and believe that our collective expertise and shared commitment can make a significant impact on the global agricultural landscape.

Join us on this exciting journey as we transform agriculture and build a sustainable future together.

About the Role:

In this position, you will work under the direction of our scientists to assist in the successful execution of the Loam Bio R&D program. Our US microbial laboratory program is designed to isolate, purify, characterize, screen, store, and produce microbial samples, specimens, and consortia.

This role will support efforts in the molecular characterization of microbes /communities and greenhouse and field trial activities, by performing culturing, screening, and management of microbial collections. You will focus on the implementation of internal operations in this area as well as collaboration with other Loam Bio labs and those collaborators. The Technical Officer will work closely with internal and external lab-based research teams in protocol and compliance implementation, maintenance of relevant data, documentation, and inventory information.

Responsibilities:

• Thorough understanding and strict adherence to all communicated permitting protocols and safety standards.
• Perform a wide range of microbiological tests, including preparation, isolation, identification, characterization of micro-organisms following good laboratory practices.
• Prepare, sterilize and maintain laboratory media and reagents for microbial cultivation in compliance with GLP guidelines.
• Monitor and manage microbial samples and microbial collection inventories, maintaining precise records and utilizing LIMS for efficient tracking and procurement.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments, observations, results and data while adhering to GLP and LIMS documentation standards.
• Assist in ensuring safe operating procedure/s are available and reflect current practices and contribute to protocol development, improvements and updates in line with internal and external testing standards.
• Implement biomaterials production and quality control for microbe R&D utilization.
• Collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams and researchers to plan and execute experiments and projects.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Science (Microbiology/ Biotechnology/ Plant Biology/ or Soil Science preferred)
• Passionate about microbiology and possess a genuine enthusiasm for staying updated with the latest advancements in the field. Your eagerness to learn and adapt to evolving techniques and technologies drives your continuous improvement
• Proven experience working in a microbiology laboratory, with a strong emphasis on GLP, microbial collection management, and LIMS utilization
• Demonstrated ability to implement scientific methodologies, processes and laboratory methods for delivery of desired outcomes
• Experience working in team settings and/or collaborating to deliver high-quality joint outcomes.
• Strong time management skills and the ability to report progress effectively
• Meticulous record-keeping skills, maintaining the integrity of microbial collections, and ensuring the highest level of accuracy in all laboratory activities and documentation
• Ability to network and collaborate through in-person and remote interactions (email, chats, phone, video conference)

Benefits

• Opportunity to make a significant impact and grow within a pioneering ag-tech startup organization
• Competitive salary package
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off, 401K with company match, short-term/long-term life insurance
• Collaborative and highly engaging work environment with opportunities to work across international teams
• A culture that promotes work/life balance, celebrates diversity, and offers numerous family-oriented events throughout the year

Why you should join us

We're tackling some of the most challenging issues of our time, and we're doing it with a team that's passionate about making a difference. If you're looking for a role where you can use your skills to contribute to a mission that matters, we'd love to hear from you.

Loam Bio is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.