Research Associate II - Downstream Process Development

Pivot Bio is seeking a Research Associate II for their downstream process development team in St. Louis, MO. The role involves supporting downstream processes to enhance product quality and nitrogen-use efficiency, requiring a background in life sciences and experience in fermentation labs. Key responsibilities include operating lab equipment, analyzing data, and maintaining excellent laboratory practices. Candidates should possess strong communication skills and a detail-oriented approach.
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 of naturally-occurring microbes, modern gene editing and application technologies to provide nitrogen to crops. We are dedicated to providing new solutions for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population. Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on Forbes or PBS News Hour.


Pivot Bio are hiring for a Research 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 Bio’s 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 support innovation, while maintaining excellent laboratory practices.   


Reporting to the formulation scientist, downstream, the candidate will be responsible for supporting the downstream processes development intended to increase product quality and shelf-life, and improve nitrogen-use efficiency in selected crops. Prior experience with drying technologies including freeze drying and spray drying is a plus. The candidate should have a strong foundation in 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 separation, drying, and on-seed application 
Operate and maintain lab-scale processing equipment, including cell separation, freeze-dryer and 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:



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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All remote positions and those not located in our Berkeley facility are paid based on National Benchmark data. Following employment, growth beyond the hiring range is possible based on performance.

Hiring Compensation Range$64,000—$80,000 USD
Job posting details for Research Associate II - Downstream Process Development at Pivot Bio in St. Louis, MO. Compensation / salary range: $64,000—$80,000 USD. ClimateTechList gathers 8,000+ job openings from over 542 climate tech companies and updates them daily.