Sr. Research Associate, Fermentation

Duties & Responsibilities

• Independently plan, execute, and oversee complex fermentation operations across bioreactor scales (shake flask, lab and pilot scale) with minimal supervision.
• Monitor and record the details of experiments, process conditions, and deviations.
• Collect samples from experiments using aseptic technique, run routine biological assays ensuring high data integrity.
• Analyze experimental data, compile comprehensive technical reports, and present findings to cross-functional teams.
• Prepare equipment and media for experiments. Assist in the maintenance of consumables and equipment parts and supplies.
• Support downstream process development activities to facilitate harvest material transfer, provide relevant fermentation process data, and support evaluation of downstream process performance.
• Participate in end-to-end process development activities, including integrated upstream–downstream runs, process characterization, and troubleshooting to ensure overall process consistency, product quality, and scalability.
• Plan/organize weekly and daily tasks based on the provided experimental schedule.
• Maintain equipment and work area to be clean, safe, and functional. Participate in safety inspections and reviews.
• Provide support with other scientists as time and testing requires.
• Utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills to overcome experimental issues.
• Work independently and train additional personnel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelors’ degree in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, or a related life sciences discipline, with relevant industry experience.
• 2-4 years with relevant experience in fermentation development, microbial cell culture, or bioprocess engineering, depending on educational background and organization requirements.
• Preferred previous experience in aseptic technique, sampling procedures, laboratory safety, and good documentation practices.
• Experience in data analysis, process troubleshooting, experimental design, and interpretation of fermentation performance data.
• Excellent technical writing skills, ability to prepare accurate experimental records, and present process development findings.
• Effective communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams, including upstream and downstream process development, analytical development, and operations.
• Receptive to direction and constructive feedback to apply learning and support team priorities.
• Must be able to lift 25lb.

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to downstream processing operations, including mechanical separation, filtration and drying.
• Experience supporting integrated upstream–downstream process development, scale-up, and technology transfer activities.
• Familiarity with statistical tools, process characterization, and data-driven process optimization.
• Ability to manage multiple experiments and contribute to project timelines through independent work.

Travel

The position will require minimal travel.