We are seeking candidates for the position of Research Scientist for the Fermentation Biocatalysis and Downstream Processing team, Department of Biotransformation at the Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI). Our R&D focus is fermentation and enzymatic transformation for the production of future food ingredients such as microbial protein/fat and bioactives (e.g. antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, dietary fiber, etc) as well as personal care products. Development of bioprocess is, therefore, a core activity involving fermentation, enzymes production, biocatalysis and downstream processing via green extraction and purification.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Research Execution:
- Conduct advanced experiments related to fermentation and biocatalysis, focusing on process optimization, yield improvement, or enzyme development.
- Design and execute fermentation experiments, including scaling up processes, troubleshooting, and optimizing conditions.
- Perform biocatalysis reactions and develop novel process to enhance efficiency, product yield and productivity.
Data Analysis and Interpretation:
- Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and make decisions on next steps.
- Maintain detailed records of experimental procedures, observations, and outcomes.
Project Management and Milestone Delivery:
- Oversee and manage assigned research projects, ensuring timely achievement of key milestones.
- Work closely with team members to meet project objectives and deadlines.
Collaboration and Supervision:
- Mentor junior lab members, including students and technicians, in experimental techniques and data analysis.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as analytical chemistry, strain/enzyme engineering and pilot scale operation to enhance research outcomes.
Publication and IP Generation:
- Prepare high-quality research manuscripts, reviews, and reports for publication in scientific journals.
- Contribute to intellectual property generation by identifying patentable findings and assisting in patent drafting.
Grant and Proposal Writing:
- Assist in writing and submitting grant proposals, serving as a co-investigator or key contributor where needed.
- Support the preparation of progress reports and final reports for funding agencies.
Knowledge Advancement and Innovation:
- Keep updated on current literature, attend relevant conferences, and identify new research directions within fermentation and biocatalysis.
- Innovate by developing new methods or refining existing techniques to improve the lab?s research capabilities.
Safety and Lab Maintenance:
- Follow all safety protocols, ensure proper handling and disposal of chemicals and biological materials.
- Participate in maintaining lab equipment and stock, ensuring a well-organized and safe lab environment.
JOB REQUIREMENT
- PhD in Chemical engineering, Biochemistry, Biological science, Bioengineering or a related field.
- Preferably at least 2 years of hands-on experience in fermentation and/or biocatalysis research.
- Proficiency in experimental design, process optimization, and data analysis.
- Prior experience in a lab setting, with a proven record of project management and milestone achievement.
- Familiar with grant writing and funding application
- Knowledge of safety regulations and experience in lab safety management
- Expertise in microbial fermentation techniques, bioreactor operations, and/or enzymatic process development.
- Proficient in data analysis and laboratory documentation practices.
- Knowledge of intellectual property and patenting process is a plus.
- Publication record in peer-reviewed journals, preferably with demonstrated contributions to fermentation and biocatalysis research.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for scientific writing, grant writing, and collaboration.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, with a proactive and adaptable approach.
The above eligibility criteria are not exhaustive. A*STAR may include additional selection criteria based on its prevailing recruitment policies. These policies may be amended from time to time without notice. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
