Principal Microbiologist - Bioprocess Development

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity options

Bonuses

Professional development support

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Microbiologist to lead the Bioprocess Development team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will drive microbial fermentation process development for biologics and enzymes, guiding a team of scientists and engineers towards scalable, innovative solutions.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD with 8+ years in fermentation and upstream development, strong leadership, and expertise in microbial physiology and metabolic engineering.

Qualifications

• PhD in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of microbial fermentation and bioprocess development with leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of microbial physiology, genetics, and metabolic engineering.
• Hands-on experience with fermentation technologies and bioreactor systems.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical modeling.
• Experience with strain improvement and genetic modification techniques is desirable.
• Good understanding of downstream processing principles.
• Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of microbial fermentation processes.
• Design and execute lab-scale and pilot-scale fermentation experiments to improve yield and titer.
• Develop and implement upstream process control strategies.
• Characterize strains and optimize growth conditions for performance.
• Oversee scale-up and technology transfer to manufacturing.
• Analyze fermentation data and develop predictive models.
• Mentor junior scientists and research staff.
• Ensure safety and quality throughout development; support publications.

Skills

Microbial physiology

Fermentation science

Bioprocess development

Data analysis

Statistical modeling

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Education

PhD in Microbiology/Biotechnology/Biochemical Engineering

Tools

Bioreactor systems

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in the biotechnology sector, is seeking an exceptional Principal Microbiologist to lead their Bioprocess Development team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This senior role is pivotal in developing and optimizing microbial fermentation processes for the production of biologics, enzymes, and other valuable compounds. You will leverage your deep expertise in microbial physiology, fermentation science, and upstream process development to drive innovation and efficiency. The ideal candidate possesses a strong track record of success in scaling up microbial processes and a passion for advancing biomanufacturing technologies. You will lead a team of skilled scientists and engineers, contributing significantly to the company's pipeline of sustainable and high-value products.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and optimization of microbial fermentation processes for the production of target molecules. Design and execute laboratory-scale and pilot-scale fermentation experiments to improve yield, titer, and productivity. Develop and implement robust upstream process control strategies. Characterize microbial strains and optimize growth conditions for enhanced performance. Oversee the scale-up of fermentation processes, ensuring seamless technology transfer to manufacturing. Analyze fermentation data using statistical tools and develop predictive models. Mentor and guide junior scientists and research associates, fostering scientific rigor and technical proficiency. Stay current with the latest advancements in microbial fermentation, synthetic biology, and bioprocess engineering. Contribute to intellectual property generation and manuscript preparation for scientific publications. Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards throughout the development process.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 8 years of experience in microbial fermentation and bioprocess development, with demonstrated leadership experience. Extensive knowledge of microbial physiology, genetics, and metabolic engineering. Hands-on experience with various fermentation technologies and bioreactor systems. Proficiency in data analysis and statistical modeling, with experience in relevant software. Experience with strain improvement and genetic modification techniques is highly desirable. Strong understanding of downstream processing principles is a plus. Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and project management skills. Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities. Proven ability to lead teams and collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Benefits

Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, including a competitive base salary, performance-based bonuses, and equity options. Beyond financial rewards, you will receive comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a robust retirement savings plan, and extensive opportunities for professional development, including funding for advanced training and attendance at international scientific congresses. This position in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , offers the unique opportunity to work at the forefront of bioprocess innovation in a state-of-the-art research facility with a collaborative and stimulating work culture. Be part of a mission to develop sustainable solutions that impact the world.