Research Associate - Fermentation

PreferCo; Hyderabad; On-site; INR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

PreferCo is seeking a Research Associate – Fermentation to join its Fermentation team in Hyderabad. You will support scientists in executing, optimizing, and documenting microbial fermentation studies aimed at high‑value biomolecules.

The role involves bench‑scale work, instrument readiness, sample handling, and cross‑functional collaboration with strain engineering, analytics, and downstream teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, or related field.
• 1–2 years of hands‑on microbial fermentation or lab operations experience.
• Familiarity with aseptic handling, media prep, and shake flasks or fermenters.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute shake flask and bench‑scale fermentation experiments.
• Prepare media, feeds, buffers, and inoculum under supervision.
• Monitor fermentation parameters (pH, temp, agitation, DO) and collect samples.
• Maintain notebooks, batch records, and logs for fermentation trials.
• Assist with cleaning, sterilization, and readiness of fermenters and lab equipment.
• Coordinate with analytics and downstream teams for timely analyses.
• Support pilot or external run preparation and post‑run cleanup.

Skills

Microbial fermentation

Lab techniques

Shake flask operation

Bioprocess documentation

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelors/Masters in Biotechnology or related field

1–2 years lab experience

Tools

Autoclave

Laboratory fermenters

pH meter

Job description

Job Title: Research Associate – Fermentation

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Research Associate to join our Fermentation team. The successful

candidate will support scientists in the execution, optimization, and documentation of microbial

fermentation experiments for the production of high-value molecules such as proteins, peptides,

enzymes, and specialty biomolecules. This laboratory-based role is ideal for candidates who enjoy

hands‑on work, disciplined execution, and learning across fermentation development workflows.

You will work closely with the fermentation scientist and interdisciplinary teams-including strain

engineering, downstream processing, analytics, and engineering-to support day‑to‑day

experimentation, sample handling, equipment readiness, lab organization, and process data

collection from bench-scale studies.

Key Responsibilities

Fermentation Experiment Execution & Laboratory Support

• Support the planning and execution of shake flask and bench-scale fermentation experiments using microbial hosts systems.
• Assist in media, feed, buffer, and inoculum preparation for batch and fed-batch fermentation studies under the guidance of scientists.
• Operate and monitor shake flasks and laboratory fermenters for routine studies, including pH, temperature, agitation, aeration, and dissolved oxygen check as per approved protocols.
• Perform routine fermentation sampling, sample labelling, and coordination with analytical and downstream teams for timely analysis.
• Record basic process observations, culture performance trends, and deviations during experiments to support process optimization and troubleshooting.
• Assist with cleaning, sterilization, changeover, and readiness of fermenters, accessories, tubing, probes, and associated laboratory equipment.

Workflow Execution & Data Management

• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, batch records, sample logs, and experimental records for fermentation trials.
• Compile and organize process data, analytical results, and experimental observations for review by the fermentation scientist and project teams.
• Support the preparation of standard operating procedures, checklists, equipment logbooks, and inventory records.
• Perform lab assistant responsibilities including media and reagent preparation, glassware management, autoclaving, consumables stocking, freezer and cold-room organization, and routine housekeeping of the fermentation laboratory.
• Assist in calibration checks, preventive maintenance coordination, and routine upkeep of balances, pH meters, pumps, and bench-scale bioreactor peripherals.
• Work closely with fermentation scientists and cross‑functional teams to execute project plans, timelines, and sample transfer activities.
• Support pilot or external run preparation by assisting with material staging, batch documentation, line‑up checks, and post-run clean‑up.
• Help maintain a safe and organized lab environment and adhere to all biosafety, equipment, and operational guidelines.
• Escalate equipment issues, experimental deviations, or inventory shortages in a timely manner to the relevant team members.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (B.Sc./M.Sc./B.Tech/M.Tech) in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Fermentation Technology, Microbiology, Bioprocess Engineering, or a related field.
• 1–2 years of relevant hands‑on experience in microbial fermentation, upstream bioprocessing, or laboratory operations.
• Basic familiarity with microbiology techniques, aseptic handling, media preparation, and operation of shake flasks or laboratory fermenters.
• Practical understanding of laboratory measurements such as OD, pH, dry cell weight, sampling, and basic analytical coordination is desirable.
• Comfort working in a hands‑on laboratory environment with strong discipline in execution, documentation, and cleanliness.
• Strong communication skills, attention to detail, willingness to learn, and ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Preferred Experience

• Exposure to bench‑scale fermentation studies, fed‑batch workflows, or microbial process development is preferred.
• Prior experience in laboratory support activities such as autoclaving, media preparation, equipment cleaning, and consumables management is an advantage.
• Experience supporting production of recombinant proteins, enzymes, peptides, or specialty biomolecules is a plus.

Why Join Us?

• Join a mission‑driven company solving global challenges through biomanufacturing innovation.
• Help build and scale India’s first full‑stack precision fermentation platform.
• Be part of a fast‑growing ecosystem with backing from global scientific and business leaders.
• Reconnect with India’s thriving biotech landscape—Hyderabad offers not only a robust innovation ecosystem but also an excellent quality of life, strong global connectivity, and a deep talent pool.