Senior Scientist - Biofermentation & Process Development

Evotec SE; Princeton (NJ); On-site; USD 81,000 - 109,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Growth opportunities

Flexible work environment

Inclusive culture

Innovative projects

Big ideas culture

Job summary

Evotec seeks a Senior Scientist for the Reagents team in the US, focusing on biofermentation and process development. You will lead protein expression and fed-batch fermentation efforts, optimize bioreactor processes, and guide junior staff while ensuring robust documentation and safety practices.

The role offers collaboration across Bioengineering, Expression, and Purification groups within a fast-paced, data-driven environment and opportunities for impactful, cross-functional projects.

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Biological Sciences or related field with relevant experience.
• Proven protein expression in prokaryotic hosts and fermentation development.
• Experience designing and optimizing biofermentation processes for protein production.
• Hands-on fermentation optimization and scale-up using mid-scale bioreactors.
• Experience with protein purification across diverse targets.

Responsibilities

• Support project teams by conducting experiments according to defined objectives and timelines.
• Develop, optimize, and scale up fermentation processes.
• Troubleshoot fermentation performance issues and implement improvements.
• Independently design experimental routes and implement risk-mitigation strategies; develop optimization and scale-up plans.
• Prepare written reports and present data to internal and external partners.
• Mentor junior colleagues on execution and design.
• Ensure safe laboratory practices and maintain compliant documentation.

Skills

Protein expression

Fermentation process design

Fed-batch fermentation

Protein purification

Bioinformatics tools

Cross-functional collaboration

Documentation

Experiment design

Mentoring

Safety/compliance

Education

MS or PhD in Biological Sciences or related field

Tools

BioFlo bioreactors (5 L–30 L)

Bioinformatics tools

Job description

Job Title: Senior Scientist – Biofermentation & Process Development

About Us: this is who we are

At Evotec, we believe that curiosity is the spark that drives innovation and success. As a forward-thinking team, we thrive on challenging the status quo, learning from each other, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We're on a mission to create a place where curiosity isn't just encouraged—it’s celebrated.

Are you someone who asks questions, seeks answers, and isn't afraid to go deeper? #BeCureious with us and see where your curiosity can take you!

The Role: / your challenge, …in our journey

We’re looking for a passionate and curious Senior Scientist to join our Reagents team. If you’re excited by new challenges, solving complex problems, and learning every step of the way, you might just be the perfect fit. In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to drive impactful projects, collaborate with bright minds, and explore uncharted territories.

As a Senior Scientist at Evotec, you'll have the freedom to ask the hard questions, think outside the box, and find creative solutions that push us forward. It’s a role where your curiosity will fuel both your personal growth and the success of the team.

The successful candidate will join a Protein Science team of ~ 40 members and will be responsible for the expression, particularly fed-batch fermentation using Bioreactors, and purification of a diverse range of protein targets relevant to pharmaceutical research. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in fermentation science, strong problem‑solving skills, and the ability to work cross‑functionally in a fast‑paced, data‑driven environment.

What You’ll Do:

• Support project teams by conducting experiments according to defined objectives and timelines.
• Develop, optimize, and scale up fermentation processes
• Troubleshoot fermentations performances issues and implement process improvements and corrective measures
• Independently design experimental routes and implement risk-mitigation strategies; develop optimization and scale-up strategies to achieve project goals.
• Apply scientific knowledge to troubleshoot and resolve challenges, seeking input from line managers or team members when needed.
• Prepare written reports, present data, and collaborate with internal and external scientific partners.
• Present work at project-level and department-level technical meetings as required.
• Demonstrate full command of all techniques and tools relevant to assigned project responsibilities.
• Coach and mentor junior colleagues on experimental execution and design.
• Ensure safe laboratory practices for oneself and any direct reports, adhering fully to company safety policies (including COPs and SOPs).
• Stay current with scientific literature relevant to assigned projects.
• Maintain accurate and compliant documentation in accordance with Lab Notebook guidelines.

Who You Are:

• MS or PhD in Biological Sciences, Biological Engineering, or a related field, with at least 5 years of relevant experience for MS candidates.
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to effectively partner with the Bioengineering, Expression, and Purification teams at Evotec.
• A dynamic, accurate, and innovative self-starter with a flexible, problem‑solving mindset.
• Excellent attention to detail and adherence to standard operating procedures, with a commitment to producing high‑quality documentation.
• Demonstrated proficiency in protein expression, including experience expressing diverse protein types in prokaryotic hosts.
• Experience with Biofermentation process design, development, and optimization for protein production
• Hands‑on experience with fed‑batch fermentations using mid‑scale BioFlo bioreactors (5 L to 30 L - strongly preferred).
• Familiarity with high‑throughput optimization of expression conditions, including solubility and activity screening, and strategies for increasing protein yield.
• Experience in protein purification using a wide range of methods and affinity tags
• Familiarity or proficiency with bioinformatics tools for construct design.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams.
• The ideal candidate should have demonstrated exceptional client orientation, ensuring clear communication and excellent service delivery.
• Strong documentation skills, including accurate notebook maintenance and the ability to present results internally and at client meetings.

Why Join Us:

• Growth Opportunities: We’re a company that believes in continuous learning and development. Whether it’s professional courses, mentorship, or new projects, we’ll help you grow.
• Flexible Work Environment: We offer flexible work options to help you balance your professional and personal life. This role is site based.
• Inclusive Culture: We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is valued, and curiosity is encouraged.
• Innovative Projects: You’ll have the chance to work on groundbreaking initiatives and cutting‑edge technology in an atmosphere where your curiosity is the key to success.
• A Place for Big Ideas: We don’t just talk about thinking outside the box—we throw the box away. If you’ve got ideas, we want to hear them.

Are You Still Curious?

Let your curiosity guide your career—#BeCurious and explore the endless possibilities at Evotec!

The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be $80,750 to $109,250. Base salary offered may vary depending on the individual’s skills, experience and competitive market value. Additional total rewards include discretionary annual bonus, comprehensive benefits to include Medical, Dental and Vision, short-term and long-term disability, company paid basic life insurance, 401k company match, flexible work, generous paid time off and paid holiday, wellness and transportation benefits.

Evotec (US) Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, gender, age, disability, genetic information, gender expression, gender identity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.