Senior Microbiologist - Fermentation Technology

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with incentives

State-of-the-art facilities

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist specializing in Fermentation Technology to join our advanced R&D facility in Randburg. You will lead research to optimize microbial fermentation processes for industrial, pharmaceutical, and food applications.

The role focuses on strain improvement, media optimization, and bioreactor process development, with mentorship of junior scientists and collaboration across disciplines in a dynamic, state-of-the-art environment.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Microbiology or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in industrial fermentation or bioprocess development.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D efforts in microbial fermentation for target compounds.
• Optimize fermentation parameters for yield and productivity.
• Conduct strain selection and development programs.
• Develop and scale up fermentation processes from lab to pilot.
• Perform downstream processing development and optimization.
• Analyze fermentation data and provide technical recommendations.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians.

Skills

Microbiology

Bioprocess

Fermentation

Bioreactor operation

Molecular biology

Data analysis

Statistical modeling

Leadership

Education

PhD in Microbiology

Master's in Microbiology

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior Microbiologist specializing in Fermentation Technology to join their advanced research and development facility in Randburg. This role is crucial for optimizing microbial fermentation processes to produce valuable compounds for industrial, pharmaceutical, and food applications. The Senior Microbiologist will lead research into strain improvement, media optimization, and bioreactor process development, ensuring efficient and scalable production. You will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to innovation, leveraging cutting-edge technology and scientific expertise to drive advancements in industrial biotechnology and contribute to sustainable production methods.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development efforts in microbial fermentation for the production of target compounds.
• Optimize fermentation parameters (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrient feeding) for enhanced yield and productivity.
• Conduct strain selection and development programs to improve microbial performance.
• Develop and scale-up fermentation processes from laboratory bench to pilot plant.
• Perform downstream processing development and optimization.
• Analyze fermentation data, interpret results, and provide technical recommendations.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians in the fermentation group.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial fermentation or bioprocess development.
• Proven expertise in microbial physiology, aseptic techniques, and bioreactor operation.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques for strain improvement is a strong asset.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical modeling of fermentation processes.
• Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary with performance-based incentives and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on impactful projects in industrial biotechnology and contribute to sustainable manufacturing.
• Access to state-of-the-art fermentation and analytical facilities.
• Support for continuous professional development and attendance at industry conferences.
• A dynamic and collaborative research environment with opportunities for growth.