Downstream Bioformulations and Processes Development - Scientist/Sr. Scientist

Downstream Bioformulations and Processes Development - Scientist/Sr. Scientist. at Pivot Bio (View all jobs) 

Hayward, CA 

Company Description:  

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of the soil microbiome, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in agriculture.  Our first commercial product harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes to provide nutrients to crops.  We are dedicated to providing new sustainable ways for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population.  Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on OneZero or CNN. 

Position: Downstream Formulations and Processes Development - Scientist/Senior Scientist, Hayward CA  

We are looking for an experienced Downstream Bioformulations and Processes Development Scientist/Senior Scientist with sufficient understanding of fermentation to join the Process Development and Pilot function within the Bioprocessing and Formulation (BnF) team.  As a critical member of BnF, you will have responsibilities in leading, designing, executing, and scaling up microbial recovery and formulation processes, working closely with fermentation process development Scientists and engineers, turning formulation research ideas and concepts into scalable processes at pilot and large scale. Build and lead the downstream process (DSP) team developing scalable processes for both dry and liquid formulation. The ideal candidate will be experienced in fermentation processes, understanding the impact of fermentation on formulation and recovery unit operations, with experience in equipment identification, purchasing, setup, and commissioning. This will be a hands-on position working with a multidisciplinary team, in a flexible and creative environment required to innovate technology. You will perform associated DSP calculations in collaboration with the fermentation team for comprehensive characterizations of all aspects of our fermentation process, syncing these processes across multiple facilities, and delivering specifications that can be used to commission new facilities without compromising yield.  This position will report to the Principal Scientist in BnF.    

Responsibilities:  

• Dry and Liquid formulation Process Development and Optimization for extended shelf-life biological products
• Operation and maintenance of formulation and recovery unit operation such as pilot-scale spray dryer, freeze dryer, fluid bed dryer, centrifuge, and filtration unit
• Design and execute experiments to de-risk impact of scaling up various formulation ingredients. Implement Design of Experiment (DOE, JMP) in workflows.  Facilitate the transfer of technology and processes developed in the lab to commercial manufacturing
• Apply statistical analysis techniques and critical thinking to biological datasets
• Write technical reports/documentation, SOPs , and other business correspondence
• Ensures technical transfer of procedures and operations is in place for consistent results  

Qualifications and Experience:  

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, Food Engineering, Microbiology, or related field with at least 5 years of industry experience in downstream/formulation process development and scale-up, or master's degree with at least 10 years of relevant industry experience
• Hands-on experience in operating drying unit operations and recovery unit operations
• Experience with analytical equipment
• A proven history of scaling biological processes
• Demonstrated experience within laboratory work, laboratory protocols, and experimental science
• Demonstrated understanding of a data-driven approach to process development
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills with proven ability to thrive in a team environment with attention to detail
• Occasionally able to lift 30+lbs
• Experience with impact of formulation and recovery processes and process changes in stability of product is a requirement
• Experience with impact of packaging on shelf-life of product preferred 

 What we offer:

• Competitive package in a disruptive startup
• Stock options
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums
• Life, Short Term and Long Term Disability policies
• Employee Assistance Program with free referrals and discounts
• 401(k) plan, 3% Match
• Commuter benefits
• Annual Training & Development support
• Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team