Research Associate II Downstream Process Development

About Pivot Bio:

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of microbiology genomics crop nutrition and agriculture Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in fertilizer technology. Our first commercial product harnesses the power ofnaturally-occurringmicrobes modern gene editing and application technologies to provide nitrogen to crops. Weare dedicated to providingnew solutionsfor farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the worlds growing population. Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio onForbesorPBS News Hour.

Pivot Bio are hiring for aResearch Associate II role to join our downstream process development team at our new R&D campus in St. Louis MO. The team is an integral part of Pivot Bios Product Innovation organization working closely with the Fermentation Process Development Team as well as other relevant functions at our new R&D campus.The successful candidate should be willing to learn and supportinnovationwhilemaintainingexcellent laboratory practices.

Reporting to the formulation scientist downstream the candidate willbe responsible forsupporting the downstreamprocessesdevelopment intended to increase product quality and shelf-life andimprove nitrogen-use efficiency in selected crops. Prior experience with drying technologies including freeze drying and spray drying is a plus. The candidate should havea strong foundationin chemistry a working knowledge of microbiology an eye for detail skill with troubleshooting laboratory equipment and excellent verbal and written communication skills. Familiarity with fermentation systems laboratory automation and LIMS systems are a plus.

Key Responsibilities:

• Working in a fermentation and downstream laboratory setting with minimal supervision
• Handling end of fermentation samples for live cells separationdrying and on-seed application
• Operate andmaintainlab-scale processing equipment including cell separation freeze-dryerand spray-dryer systems
• Plate and count microbes using aseptic technique automated dilution and counting methods
• Collect enter and analyze downstream data in LIMS systems
• Attend and present data in R&D meetings

Required Education & Experience

• Bachelor of Science degree in life sciences food science biological systems engineering biochemical engineering or related field or equivalent experience
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a fast-paced industry fermentation and downstream lab environment
• Experience with downstream process development protocols and equipment in a plus
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently ask good questions and recognize anomalies
• Attention to detail skilled in making observations and documenting anomalies
• Can-do attitude strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills
• Open mind for learning and contributing across fermentation and downstream process development

Work Authorization:

• Must be authorized to work in the United States

What We Offer:

• Sales Incentive Bonus Plan
• Competitive package in a disruptive startup
• Stock options
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums
• Life Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies
• Employee Assistance Program with free referrals and discounts
• 401(k) plan 3% Match
• Commuter benefits
• Annual Training & Development support
• Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team

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