Sara Drais
@saradrais
Research scientist specializing in environmental microbiology and applied biofilm solutions.
United KingdomWhat I'm looking for
I am an environmental microbiologist with a PhD and a track record translating laboratory research into practical applications, funding proposals, and clear scientific communication. I have led R&D for an early-stage biofilm-control product, coordinated multidisciplinary projects, and secured funding to advance technology readiness.
I excel at literature synthesis, stakeholder engagement, teaching and mentoring, and producing accessible reports and presentations for specialist and non-specialist audiences. My work combines rigorous experimental microbiology with commercial and project management experience to drive research toward real-world impact.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
USResearch Assistant
University of Strathclyde
Sep 2024 - Present (1 year)
Conducted structured literature reviews on microbial communities in landfill environments and produced reports, presentations, and funding proposals to support project planning and stakeholder decision-making.
USResearch Assistant & Venture Lead
University of Strathclyde
Sep 2024 - May 2025 (8 months)
Led R&D on a TRL 3–4 biofilm-control product, secured ~£50K in funding, and performed market assessment and industry engagement to position the technology for commercial opportunities.
USTeaching Assistant
University of Strathclyde
Jan 2023 - Dec 2024 (1 year 11 months)
Delivered tutorials and lab sessions to a cohort of 98 students, developed digital teaching materials and assessments, and provided one-to-one feedback to improve student understanding.
USLaboratory Technician
University of Strathclyde
Jan 2022 - Dec 2023 (1 year 11 months)
Trained and mentored junior researchers in microbiology and molecular biology techniques, authored SOPs and internal lab documentation, and supported outreach activities to communicate research.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
USUniversity of Strathclyde
Doctor of Philosophy, Civil & Environmental Engineering (Microbiology)
Doctor of Philosophy in Civil & Environmental Engineering with a microbiology focus completed in 2025 at the University of Strathclyde.
USUniversity of Strathclyde
Postgraduate Certificate, Researcher Professional Development
Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Professional Development completed in 2025 to support research and professional skills.
Coursera / Stanford Online
Certificate, Scientific Writing
Completed the 'Writing in the Sciences' online course in 2025 to enhance scientific communication skills.
UBUniversity of Bedfordshire
Master of Science, Microbiology in Public Health
Grade: Commendation
Master of Science in Microbiology in Public Health completed in 2019.
UBUniversity of Bedfordshire
Bachelor of Science (Hons), Biomedical Science
Grade: First Class
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Biomedical Science awarded First Class honours in 2018.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
United KingdomAuthorized to work in
Job categories
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