Sr. Microbiologist

SUMMARY

Synata Bio is commercializing novel fermentation technology to process synthesis gas into high value products. We have combined our proprietary microbial platform with industry-standard gas-production and product-recovery technologies. The complete process has been operated successfully at a significant scale and offers high yields, advantaged costs, and feedstock flexibility. We are currently executing multiple projects for design, build, and operation of commercial-scale ethanol plants.

The Senior/Lead Microbiologist will maintain and improve our active strain technology through collaboration with microbiologists, technicians, research scientists and engineers. A key function is leading efforts to document and develop microbiological and molecular biological procedures and transfer such to operating partners.  In addition, the Senior/Lead Microbiologist will provide microbiological analytical support to existing research programs.  This role requires hands-on laboratory work.  In addition to deep technical knowledge in microbial physiology, candidates should have excellent leadership and collaboration skills.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Responsible for storage, maintenance, and inventory management of proprietary strain.
• Leads effort to develop advanced molecular biological analytical procedures by designing and optimizing quantitative molecular biology-based methods using assays such as qPCR, RTqPCR, and RNAseq.
• Interprets molecular data in terms of physiological and metabolic models, communicates results and provides recommendations to key stakeholders within R&D, Operations, and Engineering.
• Improves strain and process efficiency through anaerobic culture, genome engineering, and high-throughput screening.
• Prepares documentation and training necessary for the transfer of technology from R&D to commercial manufacturing. Applies current industry best practices, proactively evaluate new technologies, stay current with relevant literature, and implement new features and functionality in the bioprocess development platform.
• Actively participates in broader organizational efforts for continuous improvement.
• Participates in safety training and safety improvement projects and activities and prioritizes safety in all activities and projects.
• Defines and promote excellence in strain maintenance best practices.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/COMPETENCIES

To perform the essential functions of this position successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Education: MS or PhD in Microbiology or equivalent professional experience. 

Experience: 5+ years laboratory experience in microbiological or biochemical research field.  Position scope will be commensurate with prior experience.

Specialized Job/Technical Knowledge: Hands-on experience with PCR, qPCR, RNAseq, as well as anaerobic microbiological techniques.

Essential Competencies: Strong communications skills, oral, written and electronic.  Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills.  Comfort working as part of a team in a start-up environment.  Ability to lead and mentor others and to work independently with a strong focus on identifying challenges, shaping projects, delivering results, and creating alternative solutions. Must be comfortable working with various types of software, including but not limited to MS Office products. 

We Value:

• Experience with high throughput screening of biological systems.
• Knowledge of statistical methods as applied to design of experiments and experimental analysis.
• Experience with fermentation equipment at bench, pilot, and industrial scale.
• Excellent time management and written/verbal communication skills to ensure all aspects of projects are clearly shared and documented.
• Experience in project management including planning, leading, monitoring and successfully executing complex projects.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position will be reporting to Director of Strain Development and is based in Warrenville, IL.  This position operates in a laboratory environment and includes work around chemical hazards such as toxic and flammable substances and supports a 24/7 operating environment.  Occasional work outside normal business hours may be required.

Physical requirements:

• Prolonged periods of standing in the lab
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. occasionally.

Synata Bio is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.