Lead Mycologist

Rhizocore is an innovative biotechnology company based at Roslin Innovation Centre, developing pioneering mycorrhizal fungal technologies that improve tree establishment, ecological restoration and increase soil carbon sequestration. We are seeking an exceptional Lead Mycologist to take ownership of our fungal strain library as we continue to expand the business.The OpportunityThis is a rare opportunity for an experienced mycologist to combine field taxonomy, molecular biology, fungal culturing, and operational leadership in a role with real environmental impact.You will lead the strategic and operational expansion of Rhizocore’s fungal collection - sourcing, identifying, preserving, and scaling native ectomycorrhizal fungi for product development and commercial deployment into forestry and reforestation projects.You will have oversight of:Field expeditions across the UK and internationally to collect fungal specimensLaboratory leadership, developing novel culturing and preservation methodsOperational management, overseeing strain library growth, team activity, and scientific prioritiesProduct Development and Application, helping bring cutting-edge mycology into large-scale forestry deploymentAbout YouWe’d love to hear from candidates with:Extensive mycology experienceStrong fungal taxonomy and identification expertiseHands-on experience in fungal isolation, aseptic culturing, and microscopyMolecular biology capability including DNA extraction, PCR, and barcodingLeadership experience managing teams, projects, or scientific operationsExcellent organisational and expedition-planning skillsBudget and project management experienceHighly DesirableExperience in cryopreservation / lyophilisation / long-term culture storageMedia formulation and optimisation expertiseExperience culturing difficult / uncultured fungal taxaExisting links to mycological networks or fungal recording groupsOutdoor leadership / remote fieldwork experienceWhy Join Rhizocore?Work on genuinely novel applied mycologyBuild solutions for climate resilience, forestry health, and biodiversity recoveryJoin a high-growth biotech at a pivotal scale-up stageFlexible working arrangementsStrong wellbeing and development focusOpportunity to influence both scientific direction and operational strategyApply as directed above, or by sending your CV to cp@kleboejardine.com for a confidential discussion. Kleboe Jardine are representing Rhizocore Technologies exclusively. Any applicant submitted via other channels will be directed to and processed by Kleboe Jardine.