R&D Scientist - Strain Engineering & Microbial Fermentation

Overview

BIOWEG is seeking a Scientist to join our R&D team. In this role, you will improve the economics and robustness of our bacterial fermentation processes while leading proof-of-concept studies that expand our product portfolio. You will own experiments end to end, from experimental design and execution to data analysis, working hands‑on with bacterial systems and translating your findings into practical process improvements.
If you are passionate about applying biotechnology to develop sustainable materials and enjoy working in a dynamic startup, we'd love to hear from you. Join us and help shape the next generation of bio‑based solutions.

• Plan and execute fermentation R&D campaigns focused on cost reduction and performance improvement (DoE / data-driven iterations)
• Optimize strains, media, and process parameters while tracking key fermentation variables and defining clear success metrics
• Design, run, and troubleshoot lab and pilot‑scale fermentations (setup, monitoring, sampling and post‑run analysis)
• Analyze fermentation samples (e.g., metabolite/product profiling, process monitoring; HPLC implementation, execution and interpretation)
• Improve experimental throughput and handover (parallelization, standardized workflows, faster R&D-to-production transitions)
• Support scale‑up and tech transfer by translating findings into repeatable protocols and practical recommendations
• Maintain strong documentation and quality practices (experimental plans, protocols, batch records, validation‑style reporting)
• Champion aseptic technique and lab safety and contribute to improving SOPs

• MSc or PhD in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemical Engineering, Fermentation Technology, Food Technology, or related
• MSc with at least 4 years or PhD with at least 1 year hands‑on applied/industrial fermentation experience (lab‑scale; pilot exposure is a plus)
• Proven ability to optimize and troubleshoot fermentation processes (not just run them)
• Strong data analysis and scientific communication to turn unexpected runs into decisions
• Analytical experience (HPLC): implementing and running methods, interpreting chromatograms, reporting results clearly
• Structured, proactive working style with ownership, prioritization, and delivery mindset
• Comfortable taking end‑to‑end ownership in a small‑team lab and start‑up environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English

• Experience with bacterial cellulose or closely related microbial production systems
• Experience with valorization of side streams / process sustainability improvements (turning “waste” into value)
• Familiarity with bioacids and/or microbial preservation systems for food or cosmetics
• Comfort working across disciplines (R&D, scale‑up, operations)

• Executearepeatable experimental pipeline while further improving it(templates, key KPIs, sampling plan, reporting format).
• Deliverat least one cost-reduction / productivity improvementsupported by data.
• Producescale-up ready recommendations(what to change, why, expected impact, and risks).