Beta Bugs is an insect genetics company based in Roslin, Edinburgh. Since day one, genetics has been our sole focus. We have built our company’s strategy, technology, and team around developing and distributing Black Soldier Fly breeds to our customers, Black Soldier Fly producers. We do this by improving Black Soldier Fly genetic performance within our HiPer-Fly® selective breeding programme and distributing them from our The Multiplier egg production facility.
ABOUT OUR INDUSTRY
Black Soldier Fly larvae possess an ability to simultaneously divert food, agricultural and industrial waste from disposal and instead up-cycle it into a green, circular and regionally produced nutrient rich ingredient for the pet, aqua and livestock sectors. As a result, black soldier fly farms are already being deployed by waste processors, retailers and food manufacturers as a means to reduce their waste footprint, whilst producing an alternative to environmentally damaging soymeal and fishmeal production.
ROLE SUMMARY
The Junior Geneticist is a hybrid role that combines hands-on technical work with desk-based analytical tasks to support the Breeding Programme's scientific and operational excellence. Working across technical operations, data analysis, protocol development, and genetic evaluation, the Junior Geneticist plays a key role in advancing internal processes, maintaining experimental rigour, and supporting project delivery.
This role is ideal for someone with experience in quantitative genetics and R programming and who is equally comfortable undertaking hands-on work with live insects in a technical setting. You will support and eventually lead routine genetic evaluations, contribute to protocol development, drive internal improvements, and assist in project execution by providing high-quality technical and analytical input.
Please note that due to the nature of working with live insects, some weekend work is required.
KEY DELIVERABLES
- Support and progressively take ownership of routine genetic evaluations using appropriate software and quantitative models (e.g., BLUPF90).
- Collect, manage, and analyse data using R, ensuring robust and reliable outputs.
- Improve, develop, and document R scripts over time.
- Contribute to the refinement and development of internal processes, aligning them with scientific best practices.
- Lead the drafting, maintenance, and continuous improvement of experimental and operational protocols.
- Perform technical tasks, including experimental setup, sample preparation, and insect management, to support genetic and breeding projects.
- Assist in maintaining internal tracking systems for performance metrics and experimental outputs.
- Use data-driven analysis to support project decision-making and breeding programme optimisation.
- Collaborate closely with technical staff and management to troubleshoot challenges and deliver objectives.
- Support project execution across departments, ensuring experiments are run according to protocols and deadlines.
- Undertake literature reviews and stay current with development in genetics, breeding, and insect science.
- Attend scientific, technical, and commercial events with the team to support knowledge exchange and visibility.
LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES
- While this role does not involve direct line management, the Junior Geneticist is expected to take scientific and technical ownership of specific activities by:
- Leading by example in maintaining high standards of data accuracy, protocol adherence, and solution-focused thinking.
- Actively contributing to a culture of continuous improvement and scientific rigour.
- Providing guidance to technical staff on protocols, processes, and experimental standards.
- Collaborating effectively across teams to ensure smooth project coordination and knowledge sharing.
- Swiftly escalating issues and proposing solutions where necessary to maintain project momentum and quality.
VALUES & BEHAVIOURS
To live and breathe the Beta Bugs Values and Behaviours framework in all aspects of working life, which can be summarised as follows:
Through all our work and interactions, we value, support and promote diversity and inclusivity
- We treat everyone with dignity and respect
- We act with honesty and integrity in all that we do
- We innovate, and deliver quality outcomes
- We work together, and share knowledge
- We learn and grow, personally and professionally
- We accept accountability for our work
- We lead by Example
ESSENTIAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE ROLE
- A degree (BSc or MSc) in Genetics, Biology, Animal/Plant Breeding, Entomology, Biostatistics, or a related scientific field.
- Experience in quantitative data analysis and in R.
- Experience with genetic evaluation software such as BLUPF90, ASReml, or equivalent.
- Experience with data collection, database management, and scientific reporting.
- Comfortable with hands-on technical work, including handling insects such as Black Soldier Fly.
- Comfortable working in high temperature and humidity environments.
- Strong written communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality protocols and reports.
- Excellent attention to detail, organisation, and time management skills.
- Proactive, collaborative, and adaptable mindset, with the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
