Senior Research Scientist in Synthetic Biology (Strain Engineering)

WHO WE ARE

Symbiomics is a biotechnology company focused on developing high-performance biological products containing efficient microbes for multiple applications in agriculture. Our mission is to develop creative solutions in the field of biologicals using cutting-edge scientific knowledge to create products that sustainably increase agricultural productivity. We value our team as a central part of this process! Every team member is encouraged to be bold in their ideas, challenge dogmas and explore new ways to solve big problems. We believe that a collaborative and dynamic environment is essential for innovation.

WHO YOU ARE

  • Share Symbiomics’ mission and vision for a more sustainable future!
  • Motivated by new challenges and have a drive for innovative ideas that directly impact global agricultural issues.
  • Looking for an emerging company that allows you to achieve great goals.
  • Team player who knows how to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
  • Aware of the responsibility of delivering excellent work!

ABOUT THIS JOB

We are looking for a Senior Research Scientist to join the Nitrogen Fixation Division and work on the development of next-generation biological products aimed at improving plant nutrition and tolerance to environmental stresses. The candidate will have access to Symbiomics’ culture collection and platform to assist in the design and validation of enhanced microorganisms that increase crop productivity while helping to lower the excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers in agricultural practices. Their key responsibilities will be:

  • Design, optimize and apply precision gene editing techniques to engineer bacteria for enhanced plant growth-promoting traits.
  • Design, build and test synthetic genetic circuits in model and non-model microorganisms.
  • Implement and execute phenotypic and functional characterization assays of engineered genetic circuits, including in vitro and in planta
  • Develop and lead research projects, from conception to completion, including designing project timeline, establishing deliverables and milestones, constructing risk assessment matrices and outlining progress report to leadership.
  • Engage in strategic discussions with external partners and stakeholders, contributing with technical support and the identification of new partnership opportunities.
  • Contribute to the implementation of novel approaches and scientific development strategies within the field of Synthetic Biology, anticipating trends and proposing innovations to Symbiomics’ technological platform.
  • Assist teams in daily activities to ensure high standards of scientific quality and compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), protocols, and safety principles.
  • Maintain organized and detailed records of protocols, experiments and results.
  • Contribute to the company’s success with new insights and ideas!

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS

  • Master’s and/or PhD degree in a relevant field to this position, such as Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology or related fields, or professional experience in any of these areas. (Just prove to us that you know what you’re doing!)
  • Extensive experience with cloning and genetic construct assembly.
  • Broad, hands-on experience in the design, optimization and execution of precision genome editing tools applied to microbial genetic engineering.
  • Strong background in the design, construction and testing of genetic circuits.
  • Strategic planning skills and ability to solve problems, critical thinking, and sense of autonomy.

It’s a plus:

  • Proven practice in handling microorganisms capable of promoting plant growth, especially nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
  • Experience with genome editing of non-model and gram-positive microorganisms.
  • Experience in plant inoculation assays and evaluation of plant-associated beneficial microorganisms, especially diazotrophs.

 

INFORMATION

Department: R&D

Workplace: Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil

 

WHAT WE OFFER

  • Food, meal, and transportation allowances, along with other benefits.
  • Health insurance.
  • Competitive salary aligned with the market and based on experience.
  • A diverse, dynamic, and innovative work environment, with access to cutting-edge technologies.
  • The opportunity to work in a highly qualified, engaged, and collaborative team.

 

HOW TO APPLY

Fill out the form and attach your resume here.