Microbiologist

**About the Company**:
APPLIED AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES Sdn. Bhd. was established in 1986 and is an associate company of two highly successful public listed Malaysian companies, namely Boustead Plantations Berhad and Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad. As a leading research centre in tropical plantation crops, our core activities involve research in crop improvement and production, providing advisory services for plantation crops, as well as the production and sale of oil palm tissue culture ramets and seeds.

**About the Research Unit**:

- **Microbial Integration R&D**: We research and develop ways to use beneficial microbes in oil palm cultivation to improve plant growth and soil health.
- **Agricultural Practice Impact Studies**: We study how different farming practices affect soil health and the environment to find ways to make oil palm cultivation more sustainable.
- **Collaboration with Agronomy**: We work with the Agronomy Section to test and implement new farming practices that can enhance soil health and crop productivity

**Positions advertised**:

- **We are seeking highly motivated and skilled Environmental Microbiologists to join our team on a two-year contract basis, with the potential for extension based on performance.**_
- Duration: Two years, with the possibility of extension at two-year intervals.

**Your Role**:
We are seeking an Environmental Microbiologist with expertise in molecular biology, specialising in beneficial bacteria and fungi-plant interactions, including Phosphate Solubilising Bacteria (PSB). The role involves developing molecular markers, optimising PCR techniques, managing lab assistants, and validating PSB activity in soil. Join us in conducting groundbreaking research to enhance agricultural practices and soil health.

**Responsibilities**:

- Conduct research projects related to environmental microbiology under the guidance of senior researchers.
- Perform laboratory experiments, including sample preparation, microbial culturing, and molecular biology and biochemical techniques.
- Collect and analyse data using a variety of statistical/bioinformatic tools and software.
- Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures and results.
- Collaborate with other team members on research projects and contribute to scientific publications.

**Qualifications**:

- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology or Biochemistry
- Previous experience working in a laboratory setting, preferably in environmental microbiology or a related discipline, is favoured.
- Proficiency in data analysis using statistical software.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experimental procedures and adapt to changing research needs.

Pay: RM3,800.00 - RM4,300.00 per month

**Benefits**:

- Free parking
- Health insurance
- Maternity leave
- Opportunities for promotion
- Professional development

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:

- Yearly bonus

**Education**:

- Bachelor's (preferred)

**Language**:

- English (required)

Willingness to travel:

- 50% (required)

Expected Start Date: 06/01/2024