Microbiologist

Synthomer is an innovative and differentiated global leader in sustainable polymer solutions. The Group is one of the world’s foremost suppliers of water based polymers and has leadership positions in many markets. Our polymers help customers create innovative new products and enhance the performance of existing products in key industries such as coatings, construction, adhesives, textiles, paper and nitrile medical gloves. With the acquisition of Eastman Adhesive Resins in 2022 and Omnova Solutions in 2020, Synthomer grew its global manufacturing network, expanded its product portfolio and boosted its geographical presence, allowing it to better serve over 6000 customers around the world. Synthomer has its operational headquarters in London, UK, and provides customer-focused services from regional centres in Harlow, UK; Marl, Germany; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Beachwood, Ohio, USA. It employs more than 5000 employees across over 40 sites and is listed on the London Stock Exchange. Synthomer’s Energy Solutions is part of the company’s Functional Solutions SBU and produces additives for use in traditional and new energy markets. William Blythe is a wholly owned subsidiary of Synthomer plc, based in Accrington, UK. The team The Microbiology Department is a global function whose primary role is to support all Synthomer plants to achieve and maintain microbial free status. Centralised support is provided by way of microbial testing service, hygiene best practice training, implementation of process-based hygiene improvements, data monitoring and trend analysis as well as a proactive research and development programme to introduce and test novel and alternative compliant in can preservation solutions. The team of microbiologists operate and liaise cross-functionally with the Regulatory Affairs, Research & Development, Operations Support and Quality Control teams to drive and deliver key pipeline projects. Purpose of the Job:

• Independently plan and execute technical work program
• Lead straightforward technical projects under supervision
• Apply Microbiology expertise effectively to solve customer problems
• Work closely with a team of other technical staff and is expected to have contact with various colleagues internally and regular contact with customers

Main Accountabilities:

• Ensure compliance with Synthomer’s Health and safety programs by pro-actively identifying, reporting on and improving safety related issues in the local laboratory area
• Perform microbiological analysis of raw materials, in process products and finished goods
• Conduct Biocide Efficacy testing studies in support of the business
• Culture collection development and maintenance
• To support the business with microbial safety and quality issues
• Support with timely investigation of customer complaints and other sources of nonconforming work
• Carry out Plant hygiene audits in order to identify processes, practices, equipment and raw materials that contribute to microbial contamination
• Plan and execute project work to develop application and knowledge
• Liaise with internal and external contacts as necessary to track and communicate service activity status
• Develop and maintain awareness in relevant technical fields
• Provide technical support to operations, R&D, sales, quality and regulatory as required
• Sample log in and reporting using LIMS system

To join our successful team, you will need: Essential

• Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology or related field (Biology, Biochemistry)
• 6 months + experience in a Class II Microbiology Laboratory in the food, pharmaceutical or chemical Industry
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice and Good Manufacturing Practice
• Ability to work independently and within a team

Desirable

• Knowledge of preservative efficacy testing and testing for biocides.
• Working knowledge of HPLC techniques
• Experience of working in an accredited laboratory (ISO 17025)

Why Synthomer? We are ambitious!
We have grown significantly – both organically and inorganically. We are a FTSE 250 listed company, 22% of our revenue comes from newly commercialized products, and we’re recognized in the top-quartile for chemicals manufacturing safety.

We believe in high challenge, high support!
We are keen to let you contribute in real roles from day 1. We expect a lot, but offer a lot, too. This includes onboarding, induction and learning events, networking opportunities, mentoring and personal development planning. So, be up for an inspiring long-term career adventure.

We personalize our approach to development!
At Synthomer, you won't find generic career tracks or development programs but rather a one-size-fits-one approach to employee development. We'll partner with you to ensure you have the right experiences that build your capabilities and accelerate your career growth.