Minimum requirements for the role:
An honours degree in microbiology or biotechnology or a related qualification is essential for this role. Previous experience having worked in a microbiology or biotechnology or related laboratory is essential. The successful candidate must have knowledge on microbial nitrogen fixation as well as liquid fermentation, reactor requirements and design and process upscaling is preferred but not essential.   Knowledge on rhizobial inoculant production and formulation is preferred and not essential. Must have knowledge on GLP, GMP and GDP and must be able to conduct relevant analytical procedures in accordance with recognised methods is preferred and not essential. Must have a strong analytical ability and ability to interpret results. The successful candidate must have the ability to conduct research independently and must have a strong interest in applied research. Must be able to oversee manufacturing plant, good practices and hygiene activities. The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Researching into modes of action, production and formulation of rhizobial inoculants. Producing rhizobial inoculants through liquid fermentation. Upscaling fermentation technologies to commercial volumes. Handling ongoing improvements of fermentation processes, growth medium and product formulation. Conducting quality assurance of production processes and facility. Conducting quality control of incoming and on-site produced inoculants according to approved procedures per product specification. Testing efficacy of inoculants through pot trials and determining shelf life of produced inoculants and find ways of improving shelf life. Testing compatibility of produced inoculants with other agriculture products and determining survival rate of inoculants on seed and improving on survival. Maintaining GLP, GMP and GDP in the microbiology laboratory and production facility. Interpreting results and generating accurate, analytical and microbiological reports according to specified methods and procedures. Keeping up to date with scientific and research developments into inoculants and preparing and updating sops. Salary package, including benefits, is highly negotiable depending on experience gained.