What are the responsibilities and job description for the Fermentation Scientist – Methane Bioconversion Specialist position at Phaxtec, Inc.?
PHAXTEC is a North Carolina synthetic biology growth company dedicated to developing and scaling material solutions that enable recycling and composting of coated paper packaging. Purpose built to solve the negative consequences of fossil and persistent plastics, PHAXTEC’s proprietary technology can produce a natural material, called PolyHydroxyAlkanoate (PHA) industrially that can replace over 50% of world’s fossil plastics. The company has a team of senior personnel and is seeking a motivated individual to act as a highly skilled Fermentation Scientist with expertise in methane and other C1 gas bioconversion to join our innovative Phaxtec team. In this role, you will lead the development and optimization of fermentation processes that convert methane gas into polyhydroxyalkanoate, a 100% biodegradable thermoplastic that can replace fossil plastics in many applications.
Key Responsibilities:
Design and conduct fermentation experiments to optimize the conversion of methane-dense waste gas streams to biobased products.
Monitor and analyze fermentation processes, identifying areas for improvement in yield, productivity, and product quality. The kinetics of product formation, the use of sustainable methods for PHA liberation and minimization of downstream processing are emphasized.
Develop and optimize scalable fermentation processes for consortiums of methanotrophic and carboxydotrophic bacteria.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate methane sourcing into bioconversion processes and aid in the overall product development strategy.
Oversee the operation of pilot-scale and production-scale fermenters for methane and other C1 gas bioconversion.
Troubleshoot fermentation issues and implement corrective actions specific to gas-based fermentations.
Stay abreast of advancements in methane bioconversion technology and apply new findings to ongoing projects.
Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field.
MS considered with at least 3 years industry experience.
Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field, with commensurate gas bioconversion qualifications considered.
US Citizen, permanent resident or permission to work in the US.
Minimum of 1 year of industry experience, in microbial fermentation process development, with an emphasis on non-conventional processes, including bioconversion of waste streams into other value-added products. We are looking for outside the box engineering scientists with a pension for challenging long-held assumptions.
Strong understanding of methanotrophic and carboxydotrophic microbial metabolism and physiology.
Proven track record of successful scale-up and technology transfer from lab to production for gas fermentation processes.
Experience with bioreactor operation and control systems, particularly for gas fermentation, with emphasis on novel ideas for solubilization and/or bioreactor modification and design experience at any scale.
Proficiency in statistical analysis and design of experiments (DoE) for process optimization. Ability to think on your feet while keeping the data clear in your mind’s eye.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and ability to independently develop.
Clear communication from the start and teamwork abilities.
Preferred Skills:
Experience with continuous fermentation processes for gas bioconversion.
Familiarity with downstream processing of biobased products from gas fermentation.
Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to novel biobased product development.
The successful candidate will play a crucial role in advancing our methane bioconversion technology, contributing to the development of sustainable biobased products. If you are passionate about leveraging fermentation science to address global challenges and have expertise in methane bioconversion, we encourage you to apply.
Compensation for the positions would be commensurate with qualifications, experience, and background, and include stock options.
Start date: Immediately. Please submit a resume along with a link to a publication list and 3 professional references.
Benefits:
- Employee moving assistance program
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Stock Options
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $66,475.55 - $80,056.57 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $66,476 - $80,057