R&D Intern at UMAHARI LLC

Organization: UMAHARI LLC (Pilot Manufacturing Facility)

Position Type: Part-time Internship (20–30 hours per week)

Location: Helix Center, 1100 Corporate Square Dr, Saint Louis, MO

Reports To: Production/Lab Manager

We are an innovative ag-biotech startup developing sustainable biofertilizer solutions using BSL-1 microorganisms, solid state fermentation, tissue culture, and precision formulation for commercial farming. Join our dynamic team to contribute to real-world impact in agricultural biotechnology.

• Assist in microbiology lab work: microbial culturing, bioassays, and metagenomics sample prep.
• Support biochemistry experiments: protein extraction, enzyme assays, and formulation testing for biofertilizers.
• Conduct chemistry analyses: pH/titration and raw material QC.
• Document experiments in lab notebooks and contribute to SOP development.
• Participate in team meetings, data analysis (Excel/Odoo), and facility setup tasks.

• Current enrollment in BS/MS program in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Botany, Life sciences or related field (UMSL/WashU/SLU students preferred).
• Hands‑on lab experience (coursework or prior research/internship).
• Familiarity with aseptic technique, basic molecular biology, or analytical chemistry.
• Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and teamwork skills.
• Availability for 10–12 weeks; local candidates preferred (relocation not provided).

• Flexible 20–30 hours per week (primarily during standard business hours; schedule can accommodate academic commitments).
• Minimum commitment of one academic semester (or 3–6 months); extensions possible based on performance.

• Practical, industry‑relevant experience in commercial biofertilizer manufacturing and quality systems.
• Direct exposure to cutting‑edge microbial technologies used in real agricultural products.
• Mentorship from experienced scientists and production staff.
• Opportunity to contribute to environmentally friendly solutions that enhance soil health and crop productivity.
• Potential for letters of recommendation and future full‑time opportunities.

Interested candidates should submit a resume and a brief cover letter outlining their interest in biofertilizers and sustainable agriculture to the UMAHARI HR team ().