Location: Swansea, UK
Company: Bionema Group Ltd.
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Job Type: Fixed-term
Work Permit: Candidates must have the right to work in the UK or be eligible for a sponsored work visa.
About Bionema Group Ltd.
Bionema Group Ltd. is a leading UK-based biocontrol technology company pioneering biological solutions for sustainable agriculture. As a 2024 King’s Award winner for Innovation, we are dedicated to reducing chemical inputs and improving soil health through cutting-edge microbial technologies.
- We are currently developing a novel biofilm-based biofertiliser designed to:
- Reduce synthetic fertiliser use by 40-50%
- Increase crop yields by 20-30%
- Improve soil health and microbiome diversity.
This aligns with the UK’s net-zero strategy and global sustainable farming goals.
Role Overview
We seek a highly skilled Microbial Biofilm Research Scientist with expertise in biostimulants, biofertilisers, and microbial formulations to join our R&D team. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to developing and commercialising an industry-first biofilm-based biofertiliser with a tangible impact on agriculture.
This is a high-impact, fixed-term project with potential for long-term collaboration and career progression within Bionema.
Key Responsibilities
Research & Development
· Develop and optimise biofilm-based biofertiliser formulations.
· Select and characterise plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), including Rhizobium sp., Pseudomonas sp., Bacillus sp.
· Enhance microbial stability, viability, and plant-microbe interactions for improved nutrient uptake and soil health.
Product Formulation & Testing
· Develop water-dispersible granules (WDG), encapsulated formulations, and liquid inoculants.
· Conduct stability, viability, and efficacy studies to optimise biofilm formation.
· Assess spray-ability and compatibility with farm application equipment.
Field Trials & Data Analysis
· Design and execute field trials on crops such as wheat, potatoes, soft fruits, and ornamentals in collaboration with UK farmers.
· Analyze soil microbiome changes, nutrient uptake, and crop yield performance.
· Assess product performance under various soil types and climatic conditions.
Regulatory & Commercialization Support
· Assist in regulatory approvals, GEP trials, and compliance documentation.
· Contribute to market launch strategies and industry engagement.
Candidate Profile
Essential Requirements:
· MSc or PhD in Microbiology, Soil Science, Plant Biology, Agricultural Biotechnology, or a related field.
· Expertise in biostimulants, biofertilisers, or microbial-based agricultural products.
· Strong knowledge of PGPR, biofilms, and soil microbial interactions.
· Hands-on experience in microbial formulations (WDG, encapsulation, liquid inoculants, or fermentation-based products).
· Proficiency in data analysis, experimental design, and field trial assessments.
· Ability to start immediately and work in the UK.
Desirable Experience:
· Understanding UK/EU regulations for biostimulants, biofertilisers, and microbial agricultural products.
· Experience in biological product commercialisation and regulatory compliance.
· Familiarity with DEFRA’s sustainability initiatives, soil health policies, and EU biofertiliser regulations.
What We Offer
· Cutting-edge research: Work on an industry-first biofilm-based biofertiliser.
· Collaborative environment: Work with leading scientists, agronomists, and industry partners.
· Career growth potential: Strong opportunity for future employment at Bionema.
· Networking opportunities: Engage with UK and global agricultural markets.
· Impact-driven research: Contribute to sustainable agriculture and food security.
How to Apply
Submit your CV & Cover Letter to info@bionema.com detailing:
· Your experience in microbial biofilms, biostimulants, or biofertilisers.
· Your contribution to microbial-based product development.
· Your availability and right to work in the UK.
Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Start Date: Immediate (as soon as possible)
Visa Sponsorship: Available for the right candidate
Join us in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture!
