Microbiologist

Position Summary

The Microbiologist will work in an agriculture-focused laboratory to analyze soil, water, compost, fertilizers, biofertilizers, crop samples, and microbial cultures. The role involves microbial testing, quality control, culture maintenance, and supporting R&D activities related to plant growth, soil health, and agricultural inputs.

Key Responsibilities

1. Microbial Analysis

• Perform microbial enumeration (total plate count, fungal count, beneficial bacteria count).
• Isolate and identify agriculturally important microbes (e.g., Azotobacter, Azospirillum, PSB, Trichoderma, Rhizobium).
• Conduct contamination checks for biofertilizers, biopesticides, and fermentation samples.
• Examine soil microbes related to nutrient cycling (N, P, K).

2. Soil & Water Testing (Microbiology Side)

• Assess microbial biomass in soil.
• Evaluate water samples for microbial contamination affecting irrigation.
• Support organic farming evaluations (microbial load, pathogens, compost maturity).

3. Quality Control (QC) & Compliance

• Maintain sterility and perform routine QC checks on lab media and reagents.
• Follow BIS, FCO, ISO, or NABL standards depending on lab requirements.
• Ensure all test results meet regulatory and quality guidelines.

4. Culture Preparation & Maintenance

• Prepare selective/differential media for agriculture-related microbes.
• Maintain microbial stock cultures and keep them contamination-free.
• Support the production-quality checks for biofertilizers and biopesticides.

5. Data Recording & Reporting

• Record observations, colony counts, and test results accurately.
• Prepare microbial analysis reports for farmers, agribusiness clients, or internal R&D.
• Enter results into LIMS or lab record books.

6. R&D Support (if part of an R&D lab)

• Assist in developing improved microbial formulations (liquid/solid biofertilizers).
• Participate in field trials for microbial products.
• Conduct stability studies and performance evaluations.

Required Skills

• Knowledge of agricultural and soil microbiology.
• Familiarity with aseptic techniques and contamination control.
• Experience with microbial plating, serial dilution, incubation, colony counting.
• Understanding of beneficial agricultural microbes and their functions.
• Ability to prepare lab media and operate basic lab equipment (incubators, autoclaves, microscopes, colony counters, etc.).

Qualifications

• B.Sc / M.Sc in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or Agricultural Microbiology.
• Experience: 0–3 years for junior roles; 3+ years for senior QC or research positions.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ₹15,000.00 - ₹30,405.00 per month

Work Location: In person