Fermentation Scientist

Job summary

The role involves hands-on fermentation and bioprocess development, focusing on optimizing production processes from lab-scale to pilot-scale. You will be a key subject matter expert, responsible for designing studies, executing fermentation runs, and analyzing data to support the development of a biological engineering suite.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in running fermentations and bioprocesses across various scales (bench to pilot and manufacturing).
• Strong understanding of critical process parameters and their variations with different vessel geometries and fermentation types.
• Knowledge of microbial physiology and engineering principles affecting process behavior at scale.
• Proficiency in bioreactor control, process sensors, off-gas data, and primary fermentation analytics.
• Ability to interpret complex experimental data and provide clear recommendations.
• Data literacy with experience in primary data analysis; familiarity with tools like Python, R, or JMP is a plus.
• Experience with automated bioreactor systems or tech transfer is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute fermentation runs across various scales, focusing on media optimization and process engineering.
• Collect and analyze primary data on titer, yield, productivity, and critical process parameters.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate strain, process, and data capture.
• Contribute to partnership projects and assist in characterizing large-scale fermentor data.

Skills

• Strong analytical skills and a builder's mindset, comfortable working in an early-stage lab environment.
• Self-driven and collaborative, able to thrive in a fast-paced startup culture.

Education

• Relevant degree in a scientific or engineering discipline, with hands-on experience in fermentation science.

Tools

• Familiarity with data analysis tools and bioreactor systems; experience with design of experiments (DoE) and mechanistic modeling is advantageous.