Senior Scientist - Biotechnology - Scion

SENIOR SCIENTIST - BIOTECHNOLOGY

• Contribute your biotechnology skills in a multidisciplinary research setting
• Rotorua based, enjoy an excellent lifestyle balance
• Innovative and exciting research area - you can have a positive impact on NZ's forestry industry

Scion specialises in research, science and technology development for the forestry industry, wood products and wood-derived materials. We lead new technology development for renewables, bioproducts and energy and the establishment of a broader based circular bioeconomy.

You will be part of a team conducing pioneering research and development in biotechnology, this means the work you do will have a real impact on our industry. Reporting to the Team Lead: Microbial Biotech within the Forest Genetics & Biotechnology Group, you will be:

• Conducting innovative research and development in industrial biotechnology using hands-on skills in molecular biology, enzymology, synthetic biology and fermentation.
• Applying thought leadership to the delivery of high-quality industrial biotechnology research for the forest industry through the identification of opportunities and the provision of expertise to relevant project tasks and outcomes.
• Taking responsibility for publications as senior author, lead author or co-author.
• Providing technical expertise to other specialists and contributing to manuscripts and research proposals.

What are we looking for?

• PhD in Biotechnology or related field with experience in enzyme, pathway or strain engineering with >5 years' experience and a track record of publications with h-index >5.
• Experienced Molecular Biologist with demonstrated expertise in the use of synthetic biology for construction of industrial microbes.
• Experience and/or interest in contributing to the circular bioeconomy through the application of biotechnology is essential.
• Enthusiastic and innovative approach to science tasks; self-starter with a 'can do' attitude and ability to work independently and efficiently on tasks to generate results in the laboratory and explore new ideas.
• Molecular biology experience including demonstrated ability for cloning and working with recombinant microorganisms in a PC2 laboratory.
• Experience with enzyme design, production, purification and testing.
• Research experience is required with strong experimental design, technical competence and problem-solving skills.

We are home to creative science minds and have a vibrant culture ensuring employees can pursue innovation and excellence in their science delivery. People enjoy working in this team because our scientists, technologists and technicians are highly skilled professionals with significant experience within the forest sector.

Scion is proud to offer:

• A great career that enables positive outcomes for New Zealand, Aotearoa;
• Continuous professional development;
• Enviable work environment;
• A demonstrated commitment to Good Employer/EEO principles;
• Work on the edge of Rotorua's world famous Whakarewarewa Forest.

For further information and to apply online, please refer to our website: www.scionresearch.com .