Job Description

About Shields Pharma Inc.

Shields Pharma Inc. is a Health Canada approved GMP organization located in Markam, Ontario.

We offer Laboratory R&D and QC testing services as well as production and formulation of certain psychedelic therapeutics for treatment of certain mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, and problematic substance.

Shields Pharma Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion for everyone. We are continuously looking for smart-minded, skilled, qualified, experienced, independent, reliable, and detail-oriented candidates to join our successful team.

Our people are at the heart of everything we do.

You can count on;

Safety as our first core value, Integrity, Accountability, and Continuous Training and skill development.

Position Title

: Junior Mycologist

Reports To:

VP of Operations

:

A Junior Mycologist is responsible for supporting the full lifecycle of Psilocybe Cubensis (commonly known as the magic mushroom) production at Shields Pharma Inc. This role involves preparation and maintenance of growth media/various substrate, mycelium growth, aseptic inoculation, cultivation, monitoring growth/fruiting conditions, harvesting and mushroom processing. The Junior Mycologist will assist in identifying, studying, researching, and develop growing strains of Psilocybe Cubensis mushrooms adhering with good agricultural and collection practices (GACP), good manufacturing practices (GMP), good laboratory documentation practices (GDP) and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Duties shall include, but are not limited, to the following:

Perform all aspects of the cultivation process, including spawn and substrate preparation, inoculation, colonization and fruiting process. Prepare various strains of Psilocybe Cubensis mycelium in liquid cultures, agar plates, slants, etc. in accordance to the company SOPs and sterile techniques. Provide assistance to identify, study, research new strains of Psilocybe Cubensis, substrates and growing techniques for optimal growth and yield potential. Prepare various media (e.g., agar plates, slants, liquid cultures) in adherence to SOPs and sterile techniques. Prepare and maintain high-quality mushroom spawn using sterile techniques. Inoculation of mycelium to various media and substrates under controlled conditions. Monitor and document the colonization process, ensuring healthy mycelial growth. Perform routine visual inspection in various cultivation stages for any sign of contamination. Assist in development and validation of new methods for propagating and growing of various Psilocybe Cubensis strains. Monitor and maintain a clean, sterile and safe laboratory environment in compliance with cleanroom standards and regulations. Execute environmental monitoring programs to ensure a sterile and clean environment Maintain and track records of Psilocybe Cubensis mycelium preparation and production outcomes to refine and improve practices continuously. Monitor fungal growth and behavior in response to environmental changes. Harvest mushrooms at peak maturity Participate in cleaning and sanitation of equipment, laboratory areas and grow rooms as per applicable procedures. Assist with the investigation of microbial contamination and deviations. Work closely with the VP of Operations and senior personnel to plan and execute growing activities that align with mushroom cultivation schedules, ensuring the seamless transition from planting to harvest. Ensure all documentation including reports, records of procedures, results and data analysis are accurate and in accordance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP) guidelines. Perform other related duties as assigned from time to time based on company needs.

Job Requirements: (Work Status, Qualification, Knowledge, and Experience)

Bachelor's degree or diploma in Microbiology, biology, Mycology, Biotechnology or similar applied scientific disciplines. Minimum of 2 years of experience in mycology, microbiology, or mushroom cultivation, preferably in a GMP-regulated environment. Understanding of aseptic techniques sterile, and sanitation practices in mycology laboratory Knowledge of GMP, GDP regulations and quality system guidelines Must have skills and experience in microbiological and/or mycology laboratory techniques and instrumentation. Must be skilled in Microbial culture handling. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency with MS office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

How To Apply:

Please reference "Junior Mycologist" in subject line and submit resume with cover letter to mmassoudinia@shieldspharma.com

We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified applicants. We are committed to adhering to our company objectives and requirements outlined above. Kindly refrain from applying if you are not qualified.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those qualified and selected shall be contacted for an interview.

No phone calls please.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

Dental care Extended health care Life insurance On-site parking Vision care
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-08-08
Expected start date: 2025-09-12