Research Assistant (Bioprocess)

TERRA OLEO PTE. LTD.; Singapore; On-site; SGD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Terra Oleo, a Singapore-based biotech venture, seeks a Bioprocess Research Assistant to support upstream fermentation and downstream lipid recovery. The role involves running small-scale cultures, sample analysis, and data-driven process optimization to develop high-value fats and oils.

You will work across multiple bioprocess streams, maintain records, and contribute to TEA-driven strategy with the process engineering team. Singapore-based, entry-level position.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a related scientific field.
• Hands-on lab experience; aseptic technique a plus.
• Experience with fermentation or microbial culture preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques (centrifugation, filtration, GC) is advantageous.
• Proficiency with data organization and basic statistics/visualization.
• Strong documentation and record-keeping practices.

Responsibilities

• Prepare media, buffers, and inoculum for small-scale fermentation.
• Operate shake flasks and benchtop bioreactors; monitor process parameters.
• Support downstream biomass harvesting, lipid extraction, and purification.
• Assist with biomass, lipid, and fatty acid analysis.
• Maintain lab inventory, equipment, and clean working spaces.
• Aid in drafting SOPs, batch records, and technical documentation.
• Support scale-up, data collection, and TEA-related activities.

Skills

Bioprocessing fundamentals

Laboratory skills

Data analysis

Excel

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Bioprocess/Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology

Tools

Benchtop bioreactors

Centrifugation

Filtration

Gas chromatography

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated and adaptable Bioprocess Research Assistant to support both upstream fermentation and downstream process development in a biotech venture working on producing high-value fats/lipids using precision fermentation. This is an entry-level hands-on role designed for a nimble scientist or engineerwho is eager to learn quickly, work across multiple bioprocess work streams, and build a strong foundation in process development. You will work closely with the process engineering team to run small-scale fermentations, support downstream recovery and purification of microbial lipids, and generate the data that drives process optimization and scale-up.

Key Responsibilities

• Upstream process support: Prepare media, buffers, and inoculum. Set up and operate shake flask cultures and benchtop bioreactors. Monitor and record process parameters (e.g., pH, DO, temperature, agitation). Perform sampling throughout fermentation runs.
• Upstream optimization: Execute planned experiments (e.g., parameter screens, DoE) to improve key process metrics such as titer, yield, and productivity. Support troubleshooting and process optimization together with process engineering team.
• Downstream process support: Perform small-scale biomass harvesting, cell separation and disruption (e.g., centrifugation, filtration, homogenization), drying, lipid extraction, and purification. Record process yields and support mass-balance calculations.
• Analytical support: Prepare samples and assist with biomass, lipid, and fatty acid analysis (e.g., gravimetric and gas chromatography). Compile, organize, and interpret experimental results.
• Laboratory operations: Support procurement and inventory management of strains, materials, reagents, and consumables. Maintain laboratory equipment and workspaces through routine cleaning, organization, and basic equipment maintenance.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate and systematic experimental records, including laboratory notebooks and batch records. Assist in drafting and updating SOPs, protocols, and process documentation to appropriate quality standards.
• Scale-up and strategy support: Support scale-up, process transfer, and CMO/CDMO activities by preparing materials, experimental data, and technical packages. Assist with data collection for techno-economic analysis (TEA) and other activities supporting the company's technical and product strategy.

Ideal Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Bioprocess/Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related discipline
• Good foundation in laboratory chemistry, including solution preparation, acid/base chemistry, titration, solvent extraction, and basic separation principles
• Hands-on laboratory experience through coursework, a final-year project, or an internship; experience with aseptic technique is a plus
• Prior exposure to microbial fermentation or yeast culture is preferred but not required
• Familiarity with separation and/or analytical techniques such as centrifugation, filtration, solvent extraction, gravimetric analysis, or chromatography is an advantage
• Working knowledge of Excel or similar tools for data organization, analysis, and visualization
• Singaporean and Singapore PR applicants only

Ideal Skills and Attributes

• Strong scientific and technical aptitude, with a solid foundation in chemistry and bioprocessing fundamentals
• Nimble and adaptable; comfortable moving between upstream and downstream priorities and connecting results from fermentation to purified lipid products
• Quick, eager learner who is open to feedback and willing to take initiative in learning new techniques and skills Detail-oriented, with disciplined record-keeping and a strong commitment to safe, careful laboratory practice
• Highly motivated, conscientious, enthusiastic and results-oriented
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Hustle smart (not just hard) mentality

Location

The position is based out of Singapore. Singaporean and Singapore PR applicants only.

Compensation

Base compensation will be commensurate with the candidate’s level of experience, capabilities, and overall fit with the company.

About Terra Oleo

Terra Oleo is a Singapore-based biotech venture leveraging the power of microbes to develop high-value fats and oils to decarbonize personal care, home care, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food, and more.