Principal Microbiologist - Industrial Applications

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Leadership role

State-of-the-art facilities

Professional development

Collaborative team

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley, Canada seeks a Principal Microbiologist to lead R&D in industrial microbiology and biocatalysis, guiding a team of scientists and driving scale-up from lab to pilot. The role emphasizes cutting-edge fermentation, strain engineering, and sustainable bioprocess development.

The candidate will apply deep knowledge of microbial physiology and genetics to develop practical, scalable processes with a strong emphasis on safety and quality, while mentoring colleagues and

Qualifications

• PhD required with leadership and project management capabilities.
• 7+ years in industrial microbiology with demonstrated leadership.
• Deep knowledge of microbial physiology, genetics and fermentation technology.
• Proficiency in molecular techniques including genetic modification and strain engineering.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects focused on industrial microbiology and biotechnology.
• Develop and optimize microbial fermentation processes for target compounds.
• Utilize molecular techniques for strain improvement, genetic engineering, and metabolic pathway manipulation.
• Oversee the scale-up of microbial processes from laboratory to pilot and potentially commercial scale.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality management systems; mentor junior scientists.

Skills

Leadership

Industrial microbiology

Fermentation technology

Molecular biology techniques

Education

Ph.D. in Microbiology/Industrial Biotechnology/Molecular Biology

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Principal Microbiologist to lead innovative research and development efforts in industrial applications in Kimberley . This senior role involves spearheading projects related to microbial fermentation, biocatalysis, and the development of sustainable biotechnological processes. You will guide a team of microbiologists, develop novel strains or optimize existing ones, and ensure the successful scale-up of processes. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of microbial physiology and genetics, extensive experience in industrial microbiology, and a passion for developing practical, sustainable solutions, contributing to a culture of scientific advancement and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects focused on industrial microbiology and biotechnology.
• Develop and optimize microbial fermentation processes for the production of target compounds.
• Utilize molecular techniques for strain improvement, genetic engineering, and metabolic pathway manipulation.
• Oversee the scale-up of microbial processes from laboratory to pilot and potentially commercial scale.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality management systems within the laboratory and pilot plant operations.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the strategic direction of the industrial biotechnology division.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Industrial Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in industrial microbiology or a related field, with demonstrated leadership capabilities.
• Extensive knowledge of microbial physiology, genetics, and fermentation technology.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including genetic modification and strain engineering.
• Experience with process development, scale-up, and optimization in an industrial setting is highly valued.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to lead impactful projects in a growing field.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory and pilot plant facilities in Kimberley .
• Support for professional development, including training and conference attendance.
• A collaborative work environment focused on innovation and sustainability.