Sr. Research Associate, Fermentation

The Fynder Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Fynder Group is seeking a Fermentation Process Development Scientist in Chicago to independently plan, execute, and oversee complex fermentation operations across shake flask to pilot scales. You will monitor experiments, collect samples using aseptic technique, and run routine assays to ensure data integrity.

Responsibilities include data analysis, technical reporting, and presenting findings to cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering or related life sciences.
• 2-4 years in fermentation development, microbial cell culture, or bioprocess engineering.
• Experience with aseptic technique, sampling procedures, lab safety, and good documentation practices.
• Experience in data analysis, process troubleshooting, experimental design, and interpretation of fermentation performance data.
• Excellent technical writing skills and ability to present process development findings.
• Strong communication, teamwork and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Must be able to lift 25 lb.

Responsibilities

• Independently plan, execute, and oversee complex fermentation operations across bioreactor scales (shake flask, lab and pilot scale).
• Monitor and record details of experiments, process conditions, and deviations.
• Collect samples from experiments using aseptic technique and run routine biological assays.
• Analyze data, compile technical reports, and present findings to cross-functional teams.
• Prepare equipment and media for experiments and assist in maintenance of consumables and equipment parts.
• Support downstream process development activities and evaluate downstream process performance.
• Participate in end-to-end process development activities for upstream–downstream runs and process characterization.
• Plan weekly and daily tasks based on the experimental schedule.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and functional work area and participate in safety inspections.
• Provide support with other scientists as needed and train additional personnel.
• Utilize critical thinking and problem-solving to overcome experimental issues.

Skills

Technical writing

Communication

Teamwork

Independent work

Problem solving

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering

Job description

• Independently plan, execute, and oversee complex fermentation operations across bioreactor scales (shake flask, lab and pilot scale) with minimal supervision.
• Monitor and record the details of experiments, process conditions, and deviations
• Collect samples from experiments using aseptic technique, run routine biological assays ensuring high data integrity.
• Analyze experimental data, compile comprehensive technical reports, and present findings to cross-functional teams.
• Prepare equipment and media for experiments. Assist in the maintenance of consumables and equipment parts and supplies.
• Support downstream process development activities to facilitate harvest material transfer, provide relevant fermentation process data, and support evaluation of downstream process performance.
• Participate in end-to-end process development activities, including integrated upstream–downstream runs, process characterization, and troubleshooting to ensure overall process consistency, product quality, and scalability.
• Plan/organize weekly and daily tasks based on the provided experimental schedule.
• Maintain equipment and work area to be clean, safe, and functional. Participate in safety inspections and reviews.
• Provide support with other scientists as time and testing requires.
• Utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills to overcome experimental issues.
• Work independently and train additional personnel as needed.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Independently plan, execute, and oversee complex fermentation operations across bioreactor scales (shake flask, lab and pilot scale) with minimal supervision.
• Monitor and record the details of experiments, process conditions, and deviations
• Collect samples from experiments using aseptic technique, run routine biological assays ensuring high data integrity.
• Analyze experimental data, compile comprehensive technical reports, and present findings to cross-functional teams.
• Prepare equipment and media for experiments. Assist in the maintenance of consumables and equipment parts and supplies.
• Support downstream process development activities to facilitate harvest material transfer, provide relevant fermentation process data, and support evaluation of downstream process performance.
• Participate in end-to-end process development activities, including integrated upstream–downstream runs, process characterization, and troubleshooting to ensure overall process consistency, product quality, and scalability.
• Plan/organize weekly and daily tasks based on the provided experimental schedule.
• Maintain equipment and work area to be clean, safe, and functional. Participate in safety inspections and reviews.
• Provide support with other scientists as time and testing requires.
• Utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills to overcome experimental issues.
• Work independently and train additional personnel as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors’ degree in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, or a related life sciences discipline, with relevant industry experience.
• 2-4 years with relevant experience in fermentation development, microbial cell culture, or bioprocess engineering, depending on educational background and organization requirements.
• Preferred previous experience in aseptic technique, sampling procedures, laboratory safety, and good documentation practices.
• Experience in data analysis, process troubleshooting, experimental design, and interpretation of fermentation performance data.
• Excellent technical writing skills, ability to prepare accurate experimental records, and present process development findings.
• Effective communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams, including upstream and downstream process development, analytical development, and operations
• Receptive to direction and constructive feedback to apply learning and support team priorities.
• Must be able to lift 25lb

Preferred Qualifications:

• Exposure to downstream processing operations, including mechanical separation, filtration and drying
• Experience supporting integrated upstream–downstream process development, scale-up, and technology transfer activities
• Familiarity with statistical tools, process characterization, and data-driven process optimization
• Ability to manage multiple experiments and contribute to project timelines through independent work.

Travel:

• The position will require minimal travel

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.