Senior Scientist, Biotransformation and Engineering

A*STAR RESEARCH ENTITIES; Singapore; On-site; SGD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute in Singapore is seeking a Biotechnology Scientist for the Biotransformation and Engineering Department. The role involves developing innovative fermentation techniques, managing research projects, and collaborating across teams. Ideal candidates will have a PhD in a relevant field and expertise in biocatalysis and fermentation. This position offers a dynamic environment focused on scientific innovation, requiring excellent communication skills and a commitment to safe work practices.

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant field required.
• Experience in fermentation with various microbial systems essential.
• Project management experience in biocatalysis required.

Responsibilities

• Develop techniques for scalable fermentation processes.
• Lead multidisciplinary research projects.
• Communicate via proposals and updates.

Skills

Biocatalysis

Fermentation

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Education

PhD in Bioprocess Engineering/Biotechnology/Biochemical Engineering/Molecular Biology/Microbiology or related field

Job description

We are seeking a Biotechnology Scientist for the Biotransformation and Engineering Department at A*STAR's Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI). The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) is Singapore's lead public sector R&D agency. Through open innovation, we collaborate with our partners in both the public and private sectors to benefit the economy and society. A*STAR SIFBI's vision is to be an innovation engine for health and well-being, focusing on the Asian phenotype.

Our two strategic pillars are:

1) Developing sustainable, value-added ingredients for food and consumer care; and

2) Optimizing health and wellbeing within the Asian phenotype.

At SIFBI's Biotransformation and Engineering Division, we drive sustainable biomanufacturing through the integration of synthetic biology and innovative bioprocess development. Harnessing our expertise in bioprocess design, biocatalysis, precision fermentation and scale-up research, we create engineering solutions to translate the scientific proof of concepts into economic value.

The current position will be further strengthening our biocatalysis, fermentation and downstream processing team with the following primary responsibilities expected from this role:

• Develop techniques, conditions, and strategies to understand, identify and test innovative and scalable submerged fermentation processes
• Deliver high quality science holistically: clear & justified hypotheses, efficient experimentation, rigorous data analysis, factual & concise documentation and an openness to engage in scientific debate.
• Lead and manage multidisciplinary research projects
• Effectively collaborate internally and externally, and with stakeholders or team members that vary geographically, culturally, and stylistically.
• Communicate work by preparing and presenting proposals and progress updates to various technical, leadership and business development team.
• Write journal papers, technology disclosures and project reports.
• Develop and test novel approaches to fermentation, automation and digitalisation (i.e. continuous fermentation, digital twin)
• Initiate risk assessments and ensure compliance with all HSEP (Health, Safety and Environmental Protection) rules and regulations, as well as SIFBI internal rules.

Requirements

• PhD in Bioprocess Engineering/Biotechnology/Biochemical Engineering/Molecular Biology/Microbiology or related field
• Fermentation experience working with difference microbial systems at various scales as well as Biocatalysis and Downstream Processing expertise
• Process-centric approach to fermentation process development and holistic process understanding ("begin with the end in mind")
• Able to interpret data and derive next steps
• Demonstrated track record in project management and applied multidisciplinary research/development in the field of biocatalysis/bioprocess development/biochemical engineering
• Good interpersonal and written skills
• Very good organization and time management in planning daily work activities.
• Commitment to strict compliance with established standards for safe work practices.
• Self-motivation and perseverance.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A constant striving for further development of one's own abilities.

The above eligibility criteria are not exhaustive. A*STAR may include additional selection criteria based on its prevailing recruitment policies. These policies may be amended from time to time without notice. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.