MiAlgae champions growth of next generation biotech talent
Scottish biotech company, MiAlgae, a producer of omega-3 rich ingredients from algae, has announced new additions to its growing team.
In a bid to support skills development and training opportunities, the company said it recently welcomed two Foundation Apprentices on board, in addition to three PhD students who are currently completing placements.
The two apprentices joined MiAlgae at the beginning of September to gain practical work experience in the company’s research lab and to learn more about Scotland’s thriving biotechnology sector. Jason Talac and James Blakely, who both attend Musselburgh Grammar, are embarking on an eight-month placement within MiAlgae’s R&D team.
Three PhD students also joined the MiAlgae team in July 2023. The startup said they have already contributed significantly to the company’s innovative R&D program, which covers process optimisation, technology transfer and future applications of MiAlgae’s proprietary platform.
Researcher PhD student, Charlotte Lee, joined the company as a research intern from the University of Stirling, where she is a tutor for biological and environmental sciences. Ben Baker and Iseabail Farquhar also joined the firm as research interns from the University of Edinburgh School of Biological Sciences, with MiAlgae sponsoring Iseabail’s industry-led PhD.
Jo Partridge, operations director at MiAlgae, said: “Scotland is bursting with young talent and at MiAlgae, we recognise the importance of enabling our next generation of biotechnology leaders to gain the real-life experience needed to thrive in their careers. There are many routes into biotech and we’re championing apprenticeships alongside more traditional academic routes.
“Biotechnology will solve many of the challenges we face today, and so it’s been encouraging to see the high volume of enthusiastic applicants we have had for our placements – from students across Scotland and much further afield. MiAlgae’s sustainable approach supports a more circular economy, and we hope to reinforce our message with talented people who will continue to drive this change for years to come.”
Pictured: PhDs Iseabail Farquhar and Charlotte Lee at MiAlgae’s production site at Balfron.
