Research Scientist – Introduction

If you have a deep understanding of metabarcoding and environmental DNA analysis coupled with hands on laboratory experience, this is a unique opportunity to help shape the success of a science-based SME with a bright future.

As a world leader in delivering nature data and intelligence, NatureMetrics is a technology company working at the cutting edge of molecular biodiversity monitoring and bringing high-throughput DNA sequencing technologies to the frontline of environmental management around the world. We have grown rapidly over the last five years and validated our technology in multiple industry sectors and regions. With an exciting scale up plan backed by ambitious and supportive investors, we are now recruiting a Research Scientist to join our Delivery Development team to disrupt and dismantle the metabarcoding pipeline we have fine-tuned over the last seven years and help put it back together into an optimised, new and improved version of itself.

Research Scientist – The Role

Analyse our current metabarcoding pipeline & identify pain points & areas for improvement.
Identify opportunities for process enhancements by staying up-to-date with scientific literature & advancements.
Collaborate with key stakeholders to comprehensively detail requirements & devise novel solutions to address identified challenges.
Design & project manage experimental plans.
Execute bespoke experiments.
Perform statistical analysis/data handling to deliver meaningful insights.
Monitor project budgets & oversee stakeholder communications.
Generate comprehensive reports & plans for process improvements.
Collaborate with colleagues across teams to implement process changes.

Research Scientist – About You

A Masters in a scientific field related to biodiversity, ecology, or biology.

Deep understanding of metabarcoding & environmental DNA analysis.
Expertise in DNA extraction, PCR, high-throughput sequencing technologies (e.g., Illumina MiSeq) & associated data analysis.
Solid laboratory experience.
Proficient in statistical analysis using R or similar software.
Strong communication & interpersonal skills.
Able to work collaboratively, freely sharing ideas & concepts.

Research Scientist – Desirable Skills

Familiar with liquid handlers & robotics for the automation of manual process steps.
Experience of Agile management methodologies and tools, particularly Jira.
Worked in a laboratory with ISO accreditation.

Research Scientist – What Is In It For You

We offer great personal development opportunities and roles with breadth, depth of scope and impact. We also offer comprehensive packages including:

Competitive Salary (depending on experience)
25 days holiday excluding bank holidays
Company pension
Flexible 40-hour week (core hours 10am to 4pm) including 1 hour paid lunch
Cycle to Work Scheme,
Enhanced family friendly policy
Dedicated well-being room
Health insurance.

This is an office based position.

Research Scientist – How to Apply

Apply online via the link below and we will get back to you.

We are advocates of a healthy work life balance and mental wellbeing. We are happy to look at flexible working options for all our roles.

At NatureMetrics diversity and inclusion are part of our DNA. Together, we continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our employees. It fuels our innovation and connects us to the communities we work with. Our values leave no space for stereotypes. We are all unique and pull together for a common purpose.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title	Research scientist - Automation
Department	Science
Reports to	Lead Scientist
Location	This role has a UK-based contract and as such, you must have the right to live and work in the UK. You’ll be required to work at your contracted office, 1 Occam Court, Surrey Research Park, Guildford, GU2 7HJ, and will need to be able to commute to this location.
Salary	Competitive
Flexibility	This is a Remote/Hybrid/Office based position, with the expectation that the successful applicant will attend the office for a minimum of 3 days a week. Travel to HQ is at your own expense.
Hours	40 per week (core hours 10am- 4pm) including 1 hour paid lunch break	FTE	1
Date	June 2023

CONTEXT OF ROLE

As a world leader in delivering nature data and intelligence, NatureMetrics brings the power of genetics to frontline environmental management. Our products allow our customers to make better decisions for business and nature. We have grown rapidly over the last five years and validated our technology in multiple industry sectors and regions of the world. We now have an exciting scale-up plan backed by ambitious and supportive investors. We aim to be the premier provider of nature data to companies globally by 2025 and you can now join the team.

MAIN PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE JOB

We are seeking a highly skilled and independent Research Scientist (Process Engineer) to join our Delivery Development team to further optimise and scale our metabarcoding pipelines that have fine-tuned over the last 7 years. This pipeline is central to how NatureMetrics transforms samples into valuable data, utilising DNA extraction from multiple sample types, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and high-throughput sequencing.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

Analyse the current metabarcoding and qPCR pipelines to identify pain points and areas for improvement in workflow efficiency, throughput, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness (e.g. Previous projects have included automating DNA extraction and implementing liquid handlers for repetitive pipetting steps)
Stay up to date with scientific literature and advancements in the field to identify opportunities for process enhancements.
Collaborate with key stakeholders to comprehensively detail requirements and devise novel solutions to address identified challenges.
Design and lead experimental plans, ensuring proper budgeting, and project management while adhering to an Agile management style.
Independently execute experiments, utilising data analytics tools to optimise processes.
Perform statistical analysis and data handling to derive meaningful insights.
Monitor project budget and provide regular updates to stakeholders, ensuring adherence to cost constraints.
Generate comprehensive reports, disseminate findings, and propose implementation plans for process improvements.
Collaborate with other teams to facilitate the smooth implementation of proposed changes.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

EXPERIENCE, QUALIFICATIONS & KNOWLEDGE

You possess sound knowledge of DNA extraction, PCR, high-throughput sequencing technologies (e.g., Illumina MiSeq), and associated data analysis.
You have extensive laboratory experience working with automation, preferably in a high-throughput laboratory environment.
You demonstrate strong problem-solving skills with the ability to devise and implement innovative solutions.
Familiarity with metabarcoding, qPCR and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is highly desirable.
A strong understanding of liquid handlers and robotics for the automation of manual laboratory processes is essential.
Proficiency in statistical analysis using R or similar software is advantageous but training can be provided.
Excellent organisational and time management skills, including the ability to lead stakeholder meetings, generate detailed minutes, and create actionable project plans. Preferably with experience with Agile management methodologies and tools, particularly Jira, for effective project planning, execution, and communication.
Clear and concise written and spoken communication skills. You have effective communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and present findings and proposals in a clear and concise manner.
Experience in a laboratory with ISO accreditation is beneficial but not essential.
A master's degree or higher in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology) is required, but exceptional candidates with equivalent relevant experience will be considered.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Clear and concise written and spoken communication skills
Excellent organisational and time management skills
Ability to work on own initiative, handle pressure appropriately and make day to day effective decisions
Delivery focused with a passion for quality and innovation, a flexible and adaptable attitude and willing to accept and drive change
High level of corporate awareness and business acumen, able to understand the wider business context and demonstrate a commitment to cross-organisational activities
Accepts a high degree of responsibility; leads by example; and creates confidence and builds trust with both internal and external stakeholders
Ability to present written information in a structured and balanced way appropriate to the needs of the reader
A consummate communicator, both written and verbal, you are able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
An outstanding team player who is able to work effectively even when things get busy and remain calm under pressure
Very organised with excellent attention to detail.

We are advocates of a healthy work life balance and mental wellbeing. We are happy to look at flexible working options for all our roles.

NATUREMETRICS VALUES

NatureMetrics Values are Transparency, Excellence, Advancement, Collaboration and Honesty. These values should be embedded in your work and behaviour, and any associated policies and processes adopted consistently.

This document sets out key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of tasks and duties. We reserve the right, at our sole discretion, to reasonably vary the responsibilities from time to time depending on the needs of the organisation without changing the level of the role.

Research Scientist (Automation)