Fermentation Scientist I/II/III

Company Description

Lygos develops novel microbial technologies for the fermentative production of commodity and specialty chemicals. Lygos identifies expensive, environmentally hazardous, and harmful processes used today and develops safe, renewable routes to the same products to achieve a more sustainable future. Lygos is seeking to hire a skilled Scientist to support its fermentation needs to develop and evaluate strains producing a variety of products. We offer a diverse, respectful, and supportive workplace.

Position Description

The successful applicant will lead strain screening and process development campaigns to identify and develop strains and processes for improved production of bio-based chemicals. The applicant is expected to implement efficient experimental approaches to identify and develop improved fermentation production processes. At Lygos, a Scientist I/II/III is expected to be a leader in the lab, and to be capable of working independently.

Primary Responsibilities

• Work within the Biotechnology team and in close collaboration with downstream processing to efficiently and accurately test hypotheses and reach key metric goals.
• Independently conceive, design, plan, and complete fermentation experiments to improve fermentation performance metrics (productivity, yield, titer).
• Prepare and present results, scientific findings, technical reports, and protocols.
• Transfer fermentation processes to external piloting and manufacturing sites. Adjust procedures and troubleshoot scale-up as needed.
• Engage in technical discussions, research planning, and regularly present results at company meetings.
• Maintain good laboratory practices and participate in the development of standard operating protocols.
• Mentor and supervise Research Associates.

Additional Responsibilities

The candidate will also be expected to work collaboratively with Lygos’ biotechnology, downstream processing, and analytical departments. The Lygos team works closely with all employees to support career development and facilitate the learning of new skill sets.

Requirements

Education and Experience Requirements

• A Ph.D. or M.S degree in chemical engineering or related field with >0, >2, >5 years of relevant experience for Scientist I, II and III, respectively.
• Proven experience successfully working within collaborative teams including supervising interns, students, or research assistants.
• Energetic, hard-working, creative, team player.
• Demonstrated technical proficiency, scientific creativity, and collaboration.
• Strong organization skills and proven ability to manage details.
• Effective problem solver that is willing to reprioritize efforts regularly and take on diverse responsibilities within a fast-paced, dynamic start-up company environment.
• Strong hands-on technical abilities including maintaining and repairing basic lab equipment.

Secondary Knowledge and Skill Considerations

• Experience working with a range of microorganisms a plus.
• Experience writing standard operating procedures and batch records and supporting technical transfer of fermentation processes to external sites.
• Experience with pilot and commercial-scale fermentation operations.
• Familiarity with Sartorious, Applikon and AMBR equipment is a plus.

Authorization to work lawfully in the United States for Lygos required. Visa sponsorship unavailable.