Fermentation Scientist: High-Yield Protein & Process Dev

Berkner Group; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Vision insurance

Dental insurance

Life insurance

401(k) plan

Job summary

Berkner Group seeks a fermentation scientist for a venture-backed startup in Durham, NC. You will execute yeast fermentation and protein production processes, developing high-yield workflows with hands-on bench and pilot-scale work.

The role emphasizes safety, documentation, and cross-team collaboration to advance sustainable animal agriculture projects and potential tech transfer to CMOs. A relevant degree with 3+ years experience is preferred.

Qualifications

• B.S./M.S. or PhD in fermentation or related field with 3+ years hands-on fermentation experience.
• Experience with microbial fermentation in agricultural, food, or pharma contexts.
• Strong knowledge of fermentation principles, processes, and equipment.
• Comfort with controls/instrumentation for bioreactor maintenance and operation.

Responsibilities

• Develop processes for high-yield protein and enzyme production; hands-on work.
• Characterize fermentation performance from well plates to pilot-scale fermenters.
• Optimize media and processes to maximize protein titer and quality.
• Set up and maintain bench and pilot bioreactors and sensors/instrumentation.
• Maintain safety, regulatory compliance, and documentation for QC and regulatory purposes.
• Assist with technology transfer to CMOs.

Skills

Fermentation development

Microbial physiology

Lab-scale fermentation

Process optimization

Bioreactor instrumentation

Team collaboration

Independent work

Biotech/agrifood/pharma

Education

B.S./M.S. or PhD in fermentation/bioprocessing

Tools

Benchtop bioreactors

Analytical instruments

Job description

Berkner Group seeks a fermentation scientist for a venture-backed startup in Durham, NC. You will execute yeast fermentation and protein production processes, developing high-yield workflows with hands-on bench and pilot-scale work.

The role emphasizes safety, documentation, and cross-team collaboration to advance sustainable animal agriculture projects and potential tech transfer to CMOs. A relevant degree with 3+ years experience is preferred.