• Perform as a project lead to design, plan, and interpret complex fermentation process experiments.

• Design and execute flask and bioreactor experiments to improve process knowledge and understanding, product yield, titer, stability, growth rate, product efficacy, etc. with minimal direct supervision.

• Function as a subject matter expert in microbial metabolism and process design to rationalize, and prove, the effects of media formulation and / or process changes upon carbon flux, product yield, titer, stability, etc. 

• Clearly and effectively present experimental proposals and rationale, as well as results and next steps, to team members in both written and verbal forms.

• Perform hands-on process development tasks with our laboratory technicians which include but are not limited to: preparing media and feed solutions; sterilizing autoclavable and SIP bioreactors; performing inoculations and feed additions; sampling and in-process trend analysis; troubleshooting; harvest; assembly and disassembly of the bioreactors.

• Provide subject matter expertise for equipment and processes within Fermentation functional responsibility and assist with process transfer to the  Formulations team.

• Stay current with scientific literature and share findings with the team.

• Promote a culture of safety in the workplace.

• Occasional weekend and off-shift hours may be necessary, as experimental designs require.

• Collect and maintain detailed records of experimental data and perform data analysis.

• Understand biological products including natural product chemistry and microbial physiology of bacteria, filamentous bacteria, and fungi.

• Alignment with and excitement for our values. We really care about embodying our values, not just talking about them.
  

• Ability to work full-time in the US and be on-site in the California Bay Area. Available to start within the next 1-3 months.

• A bachelor’s degree with 10+ years of relevant industry experience, master’s degree with 7+ years of relevant industry experience or a Ph.D. in microbiology, bacterial physiology, bioprocessing sciences, biochemistry, or related field with 2+ years of relevant industry experience. Depending on experience, level will be Scientist II or Senior Scientist.

• At least 2 years of relevant experience in handling bioreactors as well as the design and execution of upstream processes.

• Excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills, including a strong attention to detail.

• Extensive knowledge and experience with aseptic technique and the culture of microorganisms, preferably without the use of selective antibiotics.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, problem solving skills, and a detail-oriented approach.

• Energetic and self-motivated individual with the ability and desire to work independently as well as in a collaborative team-environment.

• Must be able to work standing / walking for long periods of time and possess the dexterity to handle delicate equipment regularly. Must be able to lift a minimum of 50Ibs. Should be comfortable in tight spaces, working in loud environments, working with steam, and hazardous materials such as caustics.

  Preferred Experience:

• Experience with continuous upstream processes, their development, and implementation.

• Experience and understanding of most harvest processing methods such as continuous centrifugation, tangential-flow filtration, etc.

• Experience with formulation of microbial products as liquid or dry materials focusing on recovery of biological activity in end use format.

How to apply

E-mail the following to careers@switchbioworks.com:

(1) your resume

(2) a paragraph or cover letter about why you’re excited to join Switch

(3) when you’d want to start.

We’ll take it from there!