Job
Description
R&D Microbiologist – Fermentation & Culture Development Department: R&D / Fermentation Technology Location: Hyderabad Employment Type: Full-Time / On-Site Job Summary: We are seeking a skilled and experienced microbiologist with strong expertise in microbial strain handling, culture preparation, fermentation processes, and QC analysis. This role requires in-depth understanding of stock culture management, microbial growth kinetics, aseptic techniques, fermentation parameter optimization, and downstream biological evaluation. Key Responsibilities:Culture Development & Handling - Preparation, sub-culturing, and preservation of primary and master stock cultures (slants, stab, glycerol stocks). - Maintenance of microbial strain library under GMP conditions. - Preparation and standardization of inoculum for lab-scale and pilot-scale fermenters. - Periodic viability, purity, and contamination checks of culture stocks. Fermentation Process Support - Execution and monitoring of shake flask and bioreactor fermentations (100 mL to 100 L scale). - Media design, inoculum preparation, and growth parameter optimization (pH, DO, temp, agitation, aeration). - Monitoring cell growth kinetics and metabolite production using OD, CFU, and biochemical indicators. - Support in scaling up fermentation batches for enzyme, probiotic, or metabolite production. Analytical and Quality Checks - Regular analysis of microbial cultures: cell count, viability, contamination screening, and morphology check. - Operation and calibration of laboratory instruments: pH meter, autoclave, biosafety cabinet, fermenter, UV-VIS, etc. - Coordination with QC and QA for microbial strain quality evaluation. Documentation & Compliance - Maintain records of culture usage, transfer, and storage logs as per GLP/GMP. - Write and review SOPs for culture handling and fermentation-related procedures. - Assist in regulatory documentation for strain characterization and R&D protocols. Regulatory & Audit Preparedness - Ensure biosafety and cGMP compliance in all microbiological operations. - Participate in audits (internal, external, and regulatory like USFDA, EU, TGA). - Implement biological risk assessment and contamination control practices. Qualification & Experience: - M.Sc. / M.Tech. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related field - Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on experience in fermentation microbiology, culture handling, and microbial QC. - Strong background in industrial strain handling, culture preservation, and aseptic techniques. Desired Skills: - Expertise in aerobic and anaerobic fermentation techniques - Familiarity with gene-edited / high-yield strain handling - Experience using fermenters, orbital shakers, lyophilizer, and centrifuges - Working knowledge of LIMS or ELN for microbial data entry - Strong organizational and team coordination ability Job Type: Full-time Pay: ₹192,352.26 - ₹1,290,836.42 per year Benefits: Health insurance Provident Fund Schedule: Rotational shift Work Location: In person
