Rearing Automation Scientist Job Description

Location: Reading, UK

Salary: £30-45.000 depending on experience plus share options;

Reports to: Head of R&D

About BigSis

BigSis (http://bigsis.tech), a UK start-up, is building a broad portfolio of sustainable insect control solutions based on the sterile insect technique that could substitute the majority of the £12.5bn chemical insecticides in use today. We are currently focused on scaling our highly automated production and expanding our capacity for trials and operational projects in the field.

Purpose and responsibilities

The Rearing Automation Scientist will play a key role in developing BigSis sustainable insect control solutions. You will apply your entomology and data handling expertise to help the engineering team to further develop BigSis automated rearing platforms. You will ensure the automated rearing platforms run at optimal conditions to guarantee quality and maximise yield. You will provide training and support to other scientists and lab assistants. There will be substantial opportunity for personal growth as the company continues to expand its operations.

Responsibilities will include:

Collate and contribute to ideas for improving the yield of the automated rearing process
Plan tests to validate benefits of prioritised ideas and implement these in coordination with the automation engineering team
Ensure the automated system produces a baseline of output that serves as a reference point for improvements and supplies projects as required
Generate quality control data and maintain up to date database
Organise, analyse and present data internally and externally if required
Write and update SOPs and risk assessments
Train staff and quality check their work
Plan resources and perform regular stock checks
Keep laboratory and insect rearing areas clean and organised
Provide weekend support as part of a rota system

Qualifications and experience

A degree in a relevant subject and possibly a post-graduate qualification
Previous experience of working with insects in a lab setting, preferably rearing insects on artificial diet
Good understanding of data handling and statistical analysis

Familiarity with Python and/or R would be an advantage
Must be diligent and organised, with data recording abilities and strong attention to detail
Experience in organising, prioritising and completing work to high standards and to tight deadlines
Knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word and PowerPoint
Effective verbal and written communications
Comfortable working in hot and humid environments

Personal attributes

Important personal qualities in the unstructured and fast-changing environment of a start-up are:

Energy, ambition and commitment to ensure the job gets done
Honesty, integrity and openness to ensure we build a great company culture
Flexibility to changes in priorities and adaptability to new ideas

Application Process

Please provide a cover letter in addition to your CV.

BigSis is an equal opportunities employer.

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