We’re currently building out our team to focus on the development of our own biomaterial technology: microbial weaving, a biofabrication process employing bacteria to grow customizable composite materials. Our goal is to provide truly sustainable + inspiring cellulose-based alternatives to reduce the industry’s dependence on petrochemical-derived materials—without sacrificing creativity.
We’re Hiring!
Are you excited to grow new materials with bacteria? We’re looking for a senior bioprocess engineer to design and operate pilot scale production equipment – increasing capacity and improving product quality. You’ll also support cutting edge R&D and academic collaborations to develop the future of biomaterial technologies. In addition, you’ll be working closely with the design team to produce innovative materials for customer projects with global fashion brands.
Job responsibilities
Pilot Production
- Develop and improve bacterial growth processes. Includes: static and stirred tank bacterial cultures, sterilisation, inoculation and material handling.
- Install and troubleshoot pilot bioprocess equipment – collaborating with manufacturers and external experts
- Apply knowledge of available off-the-shelf equipment, and troubleshoot, adapt and hack equipment for non-standard culture conditions
- Support the design of a new manufacturing process and build out a pilot facility from the ground up
- Develop and troubleshoot downstream processing
R&D
- Research new technologies to improve process efficiency and product quality
- Collect, assess and interpret experimental data
- Assist with company’s IP strategy and planning
Team
- Build relationships and collaborate with advisory board leading bioprocess and scale up experts from industry and academia
- Work with suppliers and manufacturers
- Manage, mentor and support a small team of scientists and engineers
- Work closely with microbiology, mechanical engineering and design teams
Qualifications
Required qualifications and skills
- Either Masters degree (or equivalent) in Bioprocess, Biotechnology, Chemical engineering or Biochemical Engineering and 6+ years industry experience
- Or PhD in Bioprocess engineering or a related field and 4+ years industry experience.
- A proven ability to solve issues with growing biological systems, experience working with microbes ideal
- Comfortable operating and optimising lab scale bioreactors
- Excellent communication skills (verbal, written and within digital meeting settings)
- Self-motivated with a learning and growth mindset
- Experience scaling up and transferring processes from lab to pilot scale and beyond
- Experience or willingness to collaborate with an interdisciplinary team, including scientists, engineers and designers
- Passion for sustainability and impact
Beneficial experience
- Use of a range of bioreactor platforms and control systems
- Assessment of pilot plant suppliers and equipment options
- Understanding of GMP and relevant ISO standards
- Implementation of laboratory automation
- Multifactorial experimental methods
- Biomaterial/biopolymer production, particularly bacterial cellulose
- Start-up / spin-out interest or experience
Benefits
- Central London office and lab
- Pension plan and stock options
- Interdisciplinary team with opportunities for learning and growth
- Support from leading experts and advisors
- Real world positive impact
Manager: CTO
Ideal start date: 1st January 2022
How to apply
Send CV and cover letter (with the position you are applying for in the subject line) to people@mod-synth.com