R&D Project Manager - Development and Optimization

Are you ready for a new beginning?

We need your talent, knowledge and dedication to better our world with biology.

Our purpose points the way

In Novonesis, we know that solutions rooted in biology can help solve humanity’s biggest challenges. Since we began more than a century ago, this has been our guide. It’s how we've gotten so far. And it’s how we'll impact the future. Now, more than ever, the world needs change. And with biosolutions, the possibilities for transformation are endless.

We’re here to better our world with biology.

Join us as the new R&D Project Manager in the Microbes area of PPD organization

Are you ready to take on a challenging role that empowers you to utilize your scientific expertise along with your project and portfolio management skills? Do you have a passion for microbes? Join us as we lead the way in production cell banking and support microbe portfolio management. Collaborate with project teams to optimize production processes and minimize variable costs or focus on developing and implementing new digitalization initiatives and process technologies to enhance production capacity. If this resonates with you, you could be the R&D Project Manager in DOM (Development and Optimization Microbes) we are looking for—someone who can work cross-functionally within the global process development group and partner with external units to create advanced, scalable manufacturing processes for both existing and innovative microbe-based products, including bacteria, fungi, and yeast.

You will utilize your deep understanding of the scientific principles of microbial bioprocessing, combined with strong stakeholder management and technical leadership, to drive research initiatives and transform them into value-added products. In this role, you will be part of the Leadership Team and report directly to the Director of Development and Optimization of Microbes.

Welcome to the Development and Optimization of Microbes, Novonesis, RTP - Morrisville, NC USA

We are a dynamic and driven cross-functional team consisting of four global leaders and innovative, highly motivated scientists, engineers, and research associates. Together, we collaborate closely with our regional and global manufacturing teams to develop and launch new products across various industries, including bioenergy, agriculture, animal health, human health, and household care.

To achieve our goals, we utilize a wide range of lab-, pilot-, and production-scale equipment, along with advanced data and digitalization tools. We also engage with colleagues worldwide to leverage our collective expertise in industrial microbiology.

In This Role You’ll Make an Impact By:

• Collaborate with PPD Microbe leaders to manage the microbe project portfolio to ensure fast and efficient development of new products, processes, and production technologies.
• Oversee and maintain targeted resourcing for new product development (NPD), optimization (OPT), technology (TEC), and production support projects across various industries and strategic initiatives.
• Lead the Production Cell Banking team to ensure a seamless supply of high-quality production vials (working cell banks) for microbes – specifically yeast, Bacillus spores, and other microbes on a global scale.
• Build and maintain strong interfaces with OPM, MCR, Operations, AR, and Regulatory to ensure smooth end-to-end project execution.
• Train and coach project leads within DOM to cultivate an impactful, results-driven culture.
• Lead quality and safety initiatives within DOM promoting a culture of continuous learning and development. 

To succeed you must hold:

• PhD degree in Chemical or Bioprocess Engineering, or closely related field, with 5+ years of industry experience, or an MS degree in a related field with 6-10 years of industry experience, or a BS degree with 10+ years of experience.
• Leadership experience managing process development and process technology projects
• Demonstrated experience developing new products and processes while mentoring the scientists and project teams.
• In-depth understanding of the scientific principles of microbial processes.
• Flexibility to come in on weekends occasionally to troubleshoot problems, or to meet a pressing deadline.
• Travel occasionally (typically no more than 2 weeks per year).

Location:
RTP - Morrisville, NC USA. (on-site 4 days per week)

Application deadline: Dec. 5th, 2025

Expected Salary Range: $125,000-150,000

• 401(k) with up to a 9% company contribution

• Minimum of 3 weeks of vacation plus 12 holidays and 2 weeks of Wellness Time 

• Health, Dental, Vision & Life insurance  

• Healthcare savings account option with generous employer contribution 

• Employee assistance program 

• Parental leave 

• Tuition reimbursement 

• All benefits begin on your first day

Could our purpose be yours? Then apply today!

At Novonesis we commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants. We recommend you not to attach a cover letter to your application. Instead, please include a few sentences in your resume/CV about why you are applying. To ensure a fair recruitment process, please refrain from adding a photo in your resume/CV.
 
Novonesis is dedicated to fostering a unique community by embracing and respecting differences. We make all employment decisions based on business needs, ensuring that every individual can thrive, regardless of identity or background such as ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.
Want to learn more?
Learn more about Novonesis, our purpose, and your career opportunities at novonesis.com
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