Research Scientist

Role Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic Research Scientist to join our R&D team at Earthkind. In this role, you will work closely with a team of scientists to advance biotech-led food technology initiatives. This is a unique opportunity to help create bio-based ingredients that will shape the future of food.

About EarthKind:

We are a circular precision fermentation platform transforming agri-industrial side streams into healthy, functional edible oils. We produce oils which are clean, climate-smart, and high-performing alternatives to conventional seed oils. We’re tackling the urgent need for cleaner ingredients by significantly reducing land, water, and carbon footprints.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Fermentation Process Development:

• Design and execute microbial fermentation experiments in lab-scale (1-10L) fermenters.
• Proficiency in operating bench-scale bioreactors for developing bio-processes (upstream and downstream.
• Develop and optimize different fermentation parameters, in shake flasks and/or lab-scale bioreactors, for optimal growth and product formation, in batch, fed-batch, or continuous mode.
• Develop suitable downstream processes to recover the product of interest, while achieving required cost, scale, and quality objectives.

2. Data Collection and Analysis:

• Monitor fermentation runs and collect relevant data (cell growth, substrate consumption, product yield, etc.).
• Analyse data and interpret results to inform further optimizations and decision-making.

3. Process Scale-Up:

• Actively participate in scaling up fermentation processes from lab scale (1-10 L bioreactors) to pilot scale (up to 100 L) at a CRO/CMO, via developing and implementing suitable tech transfer processes
• Troubleshoot and adapt processes as needed to address the unique challenges faced in an innovative R&D product development.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

• Master’s or PhD in Microbiology, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field, with experience in microbial fermentation/bioprocess development.

Experience:

• 5-10 years (Post Master’s degree) or 0-5 Years (for PhD candidates) of hands-on experience in fermentation process development, preferably in an industrial setting.
• Demonstrated ability to scale up processes from lab to pilot scale
• Experience in an industrial setting and/or startups

Skills:

• Ability to independently design, execute, and troubleshoot fermentation experiments.
• Strong analytical skills, including experience with data interpretation and process optimization.
• Exposure to analytical techniques like GC, HPLC is desirable.

Soft Skills:

• Strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset.
• Self-driven, adaptable, and comfortable with ambiguity.
• Willingness to take initiative and solve challenging problems.

Steps to apply:

Please share the latest version of your resume to jithesh@earthkindfoods.com, supriya@earthkindfoods.com, and raj@earthkindfoods.com and we will get in touch with you.