Senior Microbiologist (Industrial Fermentation)

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist for our client in East London, SA. Lead fermentation optimization projects, oversee scale-up from lab to pilot, and develop analytical methods to monitor bioproduction processes.

You will work with microbial physiology, genetics, and advanced bioprocess technologies in a dedicated R&D facility focused on sustainable biotechnology and industrial chemicals.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of industrial experience in microbial physiology, genetics, and fermentation technology.
• Proven track record in optimizing fermentation processes for industrial applications.
• Hands-on experience with bioreactor operation and scale-up principles.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques for microbial strain improvement.
• Strong analytical skills and experience with analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, spectrophotometry).
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a systematic approach to optimization.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present findings clearly.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Experience with enzymes, organic acids, or biofuels is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects for strain improvement and fermentation optimization.
• Design experiments to evaluate microbial performance under various fermentation conditions.
• Develop and implement analytical methods to monitor fermentation processes and product yield.
• Characterize microbial physiology and genetic pathways relevant to industrial bioproduction.
• Scale-up fermentation processes from bench-scale to pilot-plant operations.
• Collaborate with process engineers, chemists, and downstream processing teams for integrated development.
• Troubleshoot fermentation-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Stay abreast of literature and advancements in industrial microbiology and bioprocessing.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians; ensure safety and GMP-like practices.
• Contribute to knowledge sharing and training within the team.

Skills

Fermentation optimization

Bioprocess scale-up

Molecular biology

Analytical methods

Data analysis

Documentation

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Microbiology/Biotechnology/Biochemical Engineering

Tools

Bioreactor operation

HPLC

GC

Spectrophotometry

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leader in industrial biotechnology and sustainable chemical production, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Microbiologist to join their research and development team in East London. This role is focused on the optimization and development of microbial fermentation processes for the production of valuable biomolecules and industrial chemicals. You will lead critical research projects, working with diverse microbial strains and advanced fermentation technologies. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of microbial physiology, genetics, and fermentation engineering, coupled with hands-on experience in optimizing bioprocesses. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in biotechnology and sustainable manufacturing within a dedicated R&D facility in East London. We foster an environment of innovation and scientific rigor.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects for microbial strain improvement and fermentation process optimization.
• Design and execute experiments to evaluate and enhance microbial performance under various fermentation conditions.
• Develop and implement robust analytical methods for monitoring fermentation processes and product yield.
• Characterize microbial physiology and genetic pathways relevant to industrial bioproduction.
• Scale-up fermentation processes from laboratory bench-scale to pilot-plant operations.
• Collaborate with process engineers, chemists, and downstream processing teams to ensure integrated process development.
• Troubleshoot fermentation-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and technological advancements in industrial microbiology and fermentation.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, contributing to team knowledge and skill development.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and good laboratory practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant industrial experience in microbial physiology, genetics, and fermentation technology.
• Proven track record in optimizing fermentation processes for industrial applications.
• Hands-on experience with bioreactor operation and scale-up principles.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques for microbial strain improvement (e.g., genetic engineering, screening methods).
• Strong analytical skills and experience with analytical techniques relevant to bioprocesses (e.g., HPLC, GC, spectrophotometry).
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a systematic approach to process optimization.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical findings clearly.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Experience with specific product classes (e.g., enzymes, organic acids, biofuels) is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
• You will work in a well-equipped laboratory in East London, contributing to impactful projects in sustainable biotechnology.
• We encourage participation in scientific conferences and provide resources for continuous learning.
• Join a company committed to innovation and making a positive environmental impact through advanced bioprocessing.