Element Doha is looking for a Microbiologist experienced in food, water, and environmental testing to join our dynamic lab team.
The microbiologist in a food, water, and environmental testing laboratory plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and quality of food, water, and environmental samples through comprehensive microbiological testing and analysis. This position involves applying advanced microbiological techniques, including RT-PCR & dPCR, and adhering to ISO/IEC 17025 standards to produce accurate and reliable results.
The role is essential in safeguarding public health by detecting and quantifying microbial contaminants and biohazards, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and contributing to the overall quality assurance process.
This position will be based in Doha, Qatar.
Responsibilities Perform microbiological testing on various samples, including but limited to food, water & environmental samplesExperience in Design and execute RT-PCR & dPCR experiments for accurate quantification of nucleic acidsRT-PCR & Digital PCR (dPCR) Proficiency/Molecular Biology Techniques: Design and execute dPCR experiments for accurate quantification of nucleic acids Optimize and troubleshoot RT-PCR & dPCR protocols for various sample typesDNA/Nucleic Acid Extraction and Purification: Perform extraction of high-quality DNA, RNA from a variety of sample types (e.g., environmental samples). Utilize automated and manual methods for nucleic acid extraction. Ensure the integrity and purity of nucleic acids for downstream applicationsPrepare and maintain laboratory cultures and quality control organismsFollow ISO/IEC 17025 standards and protocols to ensure accurate and reliable test resultsConduct method validations and verifications as requiredMaintain laboratory equipment and instruments, ensuring they are calibrated and functioning properlyCollaborate with other team members to troubleshoot and resolve any testing issuesAdhere to health and safety regulations and maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment, handle and dispose of hazardous materials according to safety guidelinesStay updated with the latest industry standards, regulations, and microbiological techniquesParticipate in internal and external audits and assist in the implementation of corrective actions as neededMaintain the good laboratory housekeeping and ensure Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) standard are adheredConduct all activities as per the relevant technical standards & ISO 17025 StandardPrepare and maintain accurate laboratory records, reports, and documentation
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Skills / QualificationsExpertise in operating dPCR instruments and related software (e.g., Qiagen, Bio-Rad, Thermo Fisher)
Skilled in nucleic acid extraction using kits and custom protocols
Proficient in troubleshooting and optimizing experimental conditions
Skilled in Food & water Microbiological testing
Strong ability to interpret RT-PCR & dPCR data, including distinguishing between true signals and background noise
Proficiency in statistical analysis and data visualization tools
Ability to identify and resolve technical issues in RT-PCR & dPCR and nucleic acid extraction processes
Adaptability to new challenges and flexibility in modifying protocols as needed
Presenting complex data and concepts to a variety of audiences, including peers, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies
Understanding of ISO 17025 standards and quality management systems
Skills in manging internal/external audits and conducting proficiency testing
Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
Strong analytical skills to troubleshoot laboratory issues and optimize procedures
Ability to design experiments and interpret results effectively
Strong written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports and presenting findings
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and communicate effectively with clients
Familiarity with local & international standards & safety regulations
Participation in workshops, seminars, or conferences related to microbiology, food safety, or laboratory practices
Commitment to ethical standards and scientific integrity
Ability to adapt to new technologies and changing regulations
Willingness to collaborate and contribute to team goals
A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field
Hands-on experience with RT-PCR & dPCR and nucleic acid extraction in a laboratory setting, preferably within research, clinical, or industrial environment
Experience with regulatory compliance and quality assurance in a laboratory context
Specialized training in RT-PCR & dPCR technology, including instrument operation, protocol development, and data analysis
ISO 17025 awareness or higher level
Company OverviewElement is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to ‘Make tomorrow safer than today’.
When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.
While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.
Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.
Diversity StatementAt Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming “the world’s most trusted testing partner”.
All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.