Senior Research Associate – 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 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 Senior Research Associate 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 III, 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 requirement. 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:  

• Plans and executes and iterates routine downstream laboratory, separation, formulation, drying- and on-seed experiments independently. 
• Independently executes routine data analysis and presents data to the project teams. 
• Develops solid new hypotheses for improved shelf life of live microbes in discussion with more experienced colleagues. 
• Contributes to downstream research project proposals, complex experiment designs, and tactical research decisions. 
• Oversees workflows or experiment types, communicates results, and collaborates with relevant functions within product Innovation. 

 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 4 years of experience in a fast-paced industry downstream or fermentation lab environment 
• Experience with downstream process development of biologicals, preferably expertise in separation technologies, formulation methodologies, and drying technologies of live microbes. 
• Experience with LIMS system for documenting and analyzing data 
• Familiarity with fermentation systems and laboratory automation is 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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