SoilBioLab is a small, independent laboratory specialising in soil biology. We measure the living part of soil (bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes and mycorrhizae) for farmers, growers, consultants, landscape and estate managers, research organisations and product companies across the UK and Europe. A member of our lab team is moving on and we are using the opportunity to bring in someone more senior: a scientist who will take on the day-to-day running of the laboratory, do the analytical work alongside the team, act as a technical point of contact for clients, and help shape where the business goes next. It is a hands-on role with real breadth: at the microscope in the morning, on a call with a client or trialling a new method in the afternoon.

Part time (30 hours per week), permanent

What you’ll be doing

• Carrying out analyses yourself, above all the direct counting of micro-organisms (bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes) by light microscopy, and signing off results.
• Managing the day-to-day running of the laboratory: sample reception to report, turnaround, quality, documentation, stock, equipment and health and safety.
• Being the technical contact for clients, explaining methods and results and helping them choose the right tests.
• Leading method improvement, new test development and product trials with the Director.
• Supervising and developing lab staff as the team grows, and contributing to business development.

What we’re looking for

• A degree in microbiology, soil science, ecology, environmental science or a related discipline, with substantial relevant experience. A higher degree is welcome but not required.
• Several years of practical analytical laboratory experience. Confident, accurate microscopy is the core skill; experience of direct counting of micro-organisms, or of soil, compost or environmental samples, is a real plus. We will train the right scientist in our methods, and we are open to discussing other substantial practical scientific experience if you have little microscopy.
• A good understanding of what it takes to run a lab: quality systems, documentation, supervising people, prioritising the day’s work. You may have run one, deputised in one, or be ready to step up.
• Someone who is comfortable talking to customers and enjoys it: clear, credible and friendly on the phone, by email and in person.
• Organised, precise, data-literate (Excel at minimum) and happy working with a lot of autonomy in a small team. The right to live and work in the UK.

What to expect

• Location: Whitley Farm near Melksham, Wiltshire (SN12 8RG), within easy reach of Bath, Chippenham, Trowbridge and Devizes, with free parking. This is a lab role, so the 30 hours are on site over a minimum of four days a week. Some desk-based work can be done from home.
• Hours: 30 hours per week in a pattern that suits you, school hours included. We have a long track record of making flexible arrangements work.
• Salary: £30,000 per annum for 30 hours (£40,000 full-time equivalent), plus NEST workplace pension, 21 days’ holiday plus bank holidays (pro rata) rising with service, training in our methods, and support for professional membership and CPD.

Closing date: 30 September 2026. We are actively recruiting and interviewing throughout this period, so early applications are encouraged.

How to apply: Email your CV and a short covering note to Simon Parfey, Director, at simon@soilbiolab.co.uk, telling us about your lab experience and why soil biology interests you. Full job description and person specification available on request. More about us at www.soilbiolab.co.uk.