Senior Entomologist

Job Title: Senior Development/ Trials Entomologist

Location: Cambridge, UK

Employment Type: Full-Time, 12 month contract

Compensation: £30,000 - £45,000 annually (based on experience) + pension, benefits, and generous share options

NO RECRUITERS WE ONLY HIRE DIRECTLY

Company Overview:

BugBiome is developing biopesticides from the crop microbiome. Our team isolates and characterizes beneficial microbes and screens them using our advanced AvidX system, based on insect behaviour. By isolating and characterising beneficial microbes, we create innovative solutions that naturally protect plants from ipest for sustainable crop protection.

Role Summary:

We are searching for an experienced Entomologist or Field Trials scientists to lead development as we advance from lab-based work to field trials. This role is crucial in transitioning microbial-based biopesticides from research to practical application. Ideal candidates will have experience in entomology, pest management, and/or field trials, with a track record in managing R&D projects and mentoring scientists. You'll work closely with our interdisciplinary team to accelerate our pest control solutions to the market.

Key Responsibilities

• Assay Development: Design, set up, and optimize insect assays to evaluate microbial strains for pest control, focusing on scaling current high-throuhput assays to whole plant assays.
• R&D Leadership: Oversee projects that identify new microbial biopesticides, translate findings into practical solutions, and manage collaboration with contract research organizations.
• Field Trial Oversight: Transition lab-developed biopesticides to field trials, collaborating with CROs and ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
• Team Mentorship: Guide and develop junior team members, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes scientific rigor and continuous learning.
• Data Analysis: Ensure the accurate collection, analysis, and interpretation of research data, with clear reporting to senior management and stakeholders.
• Innovation: Approach scientific challenges with creativity, driving improvements in assay standard operating procedures for better screening efficiency.

Required Skills and Experience

• Education: MSc in Entomology, Bioscience, or related field with 3+ years of relevant experience (BSc with significant experience considered).
• Project Management: Experience managing complex entomology projects and/or field trials.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills, capable of presenting complex findings to scientific and non-scientific audiences.
• Technical Proficiency: Skilled in data analysis, experimental design, and interpretation.

Desirable

• PhD in Entomology or related field
• Experience in biopesticide discovery or crop protection
• Familiarity with microbial culturing, molecular biology, and bioinformatics
• Interest in regulatory compliance and strong organizational skills

We Offer:

• A vibrant start-up culture within a diverse and ambitious team.
• Brand new laboratory in north Cambridge
• Hands-on involvement in ground-breaking research with the potential for significant environmental impact.
• Career development opportunities
• Competitive salary, 25 days holiday (+ bank holidays), flexible hours, pension plan, share options, and social events (monthly team dinners).

Diversity Statement:

BugBiome is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are dedicated to ensuring a fair and accessible recruitment process. Please inform us of any special requirements you may have.

Application Process:

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest and suitability for this role to alicia@bugbiome.com with the subject line "Application for Entomology Role". Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

NO RECRUITERS WE ONLY HIRE DIRECTLY

Location:

The position is based in Cambridge, UK (CB3 0LE) and applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. We are currently unable to sponsor international candidates.