Senior Microbiologist – Temporary Job

About Terrapeutics Terrapeutics is a deep-science drug discovery startup operating at the intersection of microbiology, chemistry, and translational biology. Our mission is to unlock nature’s most powerful molecules—those evolved by microbes to solve the hardest biological problems—and turn them into transformative medicines for diseases with profound unmet need. We are now seeking a Senior Microbiologist to join us during a critical phase of discovery. This role offers a rare opportunity to work hands-on, at the core of an innovative platform, directly shaping experiments, data, and strategic decisions. This is a six-month position covering a parental leave, with the possibility of extension based on mutual interest and business needs The Role You will work side-by-side with the CSO on a challenging and intellectually demanding molecular discovery program. This is not a maintenance role, it is an opportunity to design, execute, troubleshoot, and push the boundaries of microbiology-driven drug discovery. The position is ideal for a scientist who enjoys deep experimental ownership, thrives in an early-stage environment, and is motivated by the chance to see their work directly influence scientific direction and decision-making. The Role You will work side-by-side with the CSO on a challenging and intellectually demanding molecular discovery program. This is not a maintenance role, it is an opportunity to design, execute, troubleshoot, and push the boundaries of microbiology-driven drug discovery. The position is ideal for a scientist who enjoys deep experimental ownership, thrives in an early-stage environment, and is motivated by the chance to see their work directly influence scientific direction and decision-making. .Key Responsibilities • Design and execute microbiology-driven discovery and optimization experiments • Develop, optimize, and scale bacterial growth and bioproduction conditions • Work hands-on with environmental and non-model bacterial strains • Collaborate closely with chemistry, analytics, and biology functions • Analyse experimental data and translate results into actionable decisions • Contribute to internal documentation, reports, and scientific strategy discussions • Be responsible for mammalian cell culture and bioassays Must Have • M.Sc./PhD (or with >7 years of research experience) • At least four years of experience in microbiology research • Demonstrated hands-on lab leadership • Proven knowledge of various tissue culture techniques, a deep understanding of bacterial requirements and media, optimization of growth and bioproduction • Understanding of practical bacterial genetics • Proved experimental troubleshooting capabilities • Outstanding organizational and documentation skills • Ability to analyse, interpret, and clearly document experimental data • Curiosity, desire to tackle challenging problems with your own ideas, and Joie de vivre Advantages • Experience working with environmental bacteria • Experience with working with microbial secondary metabolites • Experience working in a startup or early-stage R&D environment • Experience in self-learning of new technologies • Experience working in cross-functional teams (biology, chemistry, analytics) • Experience with liquid extraction, HPLC, Mass spec, NMR • Technical writing skills, proven ability to write technical papers, and assist with writing grant applications • Familiarity with basic bioinformatics tools or data analysis workflows Personal qualifications • Highly motivated, proactive, and execution-driven • Hands-on mindset with strong ownership and accountability • Thrives in a fast-paced, ambiguous startup environment • Strong interpersonal and communication skills • Collaborative team player with high integrity • Excellent English (written and verbal) • Proficiency with standard office productivity tools • Working familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory systems, and emerging AI-enabled research workflows