Director Haematococcus pluvialis cultivation and extraction

Rylaq is at a pivotal growth stage, launching our new vertical for natural astaxanthin production from Haematococcus pluvialis. We are seeking an visionary and results-driven Director of Cultivation & Extraction to lead this critical new venture from concept to commercial scale. This is a unique, ground-floor opportunity for an experienced leader to build a world-class operation and participate directly in the company's success.

What You Will Do:

Strategic Leadership: Define and execute the end-to-end strategy for Haematococcus pluvialis cultivation in closed photobioreactors (PBRs), specifically leveraging bubble column bioreactor technology for optimal growth and astaxanthin induction.

R&D and Optimization: Lead ongoing research and development efforts to optimize Haematococcus strains, nutrient media, light regimes, temperature control, CO2 supply, and stress induction protocols for maximum astaxanthin yield and quality.

Facility Design & Setup: Oversee the design, procurement, installation, and commissioning of state-of-the-art PBR systems, harvesting equipment, and initial extraction facilities within our 2000 sq ft dedicated microalgae cultivation space.

Process Development & Scaling: Develop, standardize, and scale up robust cultivation protocols from pilot to commercial production levels.

Extraction & Downstream Processing: Implement and optimize efficient, cost-effective methods for biomass harvesting, cell disruption, and astaxanthin extraction to ensure high purity and recovery.

Quality Assurance & Control: Establish stringent QC/QA protocols for all stages, from inoculum to final product, ensuring compliance with relevant industry standards (e.g., FSSAI, GMP where applicable).

Team Building & Management: Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing team of scientists, engineers, and technicians.

Innovation & IP: Drive continuous innovation and contribute to the company's intellectual property portfolio related to Haematococcus cultivation and astaxanthin extraction.

Sustainability & Efficiency: Ensure all processes adhere to Rylaq's commitment to sustainability, resource efficiency, and circular economy principles.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with the R&D, operations, and business development teams to align production with market needs.

What We Are Looking For:

Educational Background: Ph.D. or Master's degree in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Microbiology, Algal Biotechnology, or a related field.

Experience:

Minimum 8-12 years of hands-on, progressive experience in microalgae cultivation, with at least 3-5 years specifically focused on Haematococcus pluvialis and astaxanthin production at a significant scale (pilot to commercial).

Proven expertise in designing, operating, and optimizing closed photobioreactors (PBRs), particularly bubble column systems.

Demonstrable experience in microalgae harvesting techniques (centrifugation, filtration) and downstream processing for biochemical extraction (cell disruption, solvent/solvent-free extraction of astaxanthin).

Strong understanding of algal physiology, biochemistry, and bioprocess engineering.

Leadership: Proven track record of leading and mentoring technical teams, managing complex projects, and driving innovation in a dynamic environment.

Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a practical, hands-on approach.

Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with quality standards and regulatory requirements for nutraceuticals or food ingredients in India.

Pioneering Spirit: Highly self-motivated, adaptable, and thrives in a fast-paced, startup environment.

Location: Remote initially and Willingness to travel to to Palakkad, Kerala, for on-site presence.

Compensation:

This is an equity-only position designed for a visionary leader passionate about pioneering the future of sustainable biotechnology. You will receive a significant equity stake in Rylaq Private Limited, directly aligning your success with the company's growth and value creation. Full details of the equity vesting schedule and terms will be discussed with qualified candidates.

Why Join Rylaq?

Impact: Play a foundational role in building a cutting-edge, sustainable industry from the ground up in India.

Ownership: Direct ownership in the company's success through substantial equity.

Innovation: Work at the forefront of microalgae technology with a focus on high-value products.

Mission-Driven: Be part of a team committed to environmental sustainability and health.

Growth: Immense personal and professional growth potential within a rapidly expanding startup.

If you are a bold innovator, a hands-on leader, and believe in the power of microalgae to transform industries, we invite you to be a part of Rylaq's journey.

Rylaq is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.