Dry Formulation Scientist

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 commercial products harness the power of naturally-occurring microbes to provide nutrients to crops. We provide new and 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 Forbes or PBS News Hour.

Position: Dry Formulation Scientist; Berkeley, CA with travel to Hayward, CA

Location: Berkeley (>90%), Hayward (<10%)

We are looking for a scientist to develop innovative formulations to stabilize microbes in a dry state. The successful candidate should have a strong background in drying and encapsulation technologies, with demonstrated expertise in spray drying at the laboratory and/or pilot scale. Reporting to the formulation scientist, and working in a beautiful new facility in Berkeley, the candidate will be responsible for designing and executing experiments to evaluate dry formulation concepts. The candidate should have a working knowledge of microbiology, an eye for detail, skill with troubleshooting laboratory equipment, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. We expect the candidate to thrive in a fast-paced environment, adapt to changing research objectives, and operate independently with minimal oversight. If this is you, you will enjoy the satisfaction of being a crucial member of a growing team innovating the most cutting edge products in Ag Biologicals.

Responsibilities:

• Design and execute experiments to develop innovative dry formulations at laboratory scale
• Support the transfer of promising formulations from bench to pilot scale
• Collaborate with Bioprocessing and Formulation (B&F) scientists in cross-functional projects
• Coordinate with research team members to secure resources
• Operate and maintain lab-scale processing equipment
• Promote the maintenance of an organized laboratory environment, including an organizational system for sample storage
• Share research progress at team meetings
• As needed, be able to drive to/from the Hayward and Berkeley locations

Requirements:

• Ph.D. in life sciences, food science, biological systems engineering, biochemical engineering, or related field or equivalent experience
• Expertise in dry formulation unit operations such as spray drying, fluidized bed coating and drying, extrusion, freeze drying
• Experience operating laboratory and/or pilot scale drying units
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong foundation in experimental design
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced industry research lab environment
• Familiar with sterile/aseptic technique for handling microbes
• Great communication - ability to understand the needs of others and clearly explain ideas

Physical and Other Requirements

• Able to perform physically repetitive tasks like pipetting
• Valid Driver License Required
• Authorized to work in the United States

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