Description Are you excited by the opportunity to contribute to growing and protecting Scotland’s rural economy and environment? We are looking for a Molecular Microbiologist with good diagnostic skills. If this is you then SASA is seeking a Molecular Microbiologist FTA (2yrs) to join their Diagnostics, Wildlife & Molecular Biology Branch. SASA is a Division of the Agriculture and Rural Economy Directorate. We are a community of 180 scientists, inspectors, policy professionals and support staff with responsibility for supporting both ministers and external stakeholders across arable agriculture, horticulture, food, the environment and the wider rural economy. The primary role of this post is to assist the project leader deliver externally funded commercial research. Working closely with an existing A4 Researcher you will process samples using a range of microbiological or molecular techniques. These will deliver the principle aims of the project to develop novel microbial mixes that enhance plant growth and health and understand their impact on the soil microbiome. Responsibilities Production of starter cultures for commercial partners Quantification of microbial components using Realtime PCR Identification of isolates using molecular methods including sanger sequencing Maintenance of the projects culture collection Screening selected isolates against selected targets Ordering of laboratory supplies Qualifications Qualifications A degree in a relevant subject. Success Profile Success profiles are specific to each job and they include the mix of skills, experience and behaviours candidates will be assessed on. Technical Skills: Building and applying knowledge : Can explain why the approach taken in own work area is appropriate Understands the importance of data quality, identifying and raising issues relevant to work. Technical oversight and management : Ability to self-manage their time as well as part of a team to meet targets Knows when to seek advice and report issues Experience Experience in a range of molecular techniques, including DNA extraction and PCR. Practical experience in a range of microbiological techniques, including aerobic cultivation. Experience communicating own research work in written or oral format. Previous experience working as part of a team in a complex and challenging environment, balancing competing demands and prioritising, to ensure timely delivery. How to apply Apply online before midnight 6 May 2025, providing a CV and Supporting Statement of no more than 1000 words which provides evidence of how you meet the skills, experience and behaviours listed in the Success Profile above. If invited for further assessment, this will consist of an Interview and Job Simulation. Assessments are scheduled for w/c 26 May 2025 however this may be subject to change. About Us The Scottish Government is the devolved government for Scotland. We have responsibility for a wide range of key policy areas including: education, health, the economy, justice, housing and transport. We offer rewarding careers and employ people across Scotland in a wide range of professions and roles. Our staff are part of the UK Civil Service, working for Ministers and senior stakeholders to deliver vital public services which improve the lives of the people of Scotland. We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment along with a wide range of employee benefits. Find out more about what we offer. As part of the UK Civil Service, we uphold the Civil Service Nationality Rules. Working Pattern Our standard hours are 35 hours per week. We offer a range of flexible and hybrid working options depending on the needs of the role. If you have specific questions about the role you are applying for, please contact us. Equality Statement We are committed to equality and inclusion and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation. Find out more about our commitment to diversity and how we offer and support recruitment adjustments for anyone who needs them. Further information Find out more about our organisation, what we offer staff members and how to apply on our Careers Website. Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.