Bioprocess Associate - Charlottesville, United States - AgroSpheres, INC.

Description

The company is a leader in the space of RNA manufacturing and delivery technology, pioneering scalable production of encapsulated RNA for Agriculture crop inputs and plant traits.

The company envisions a future built by Nature's technologies and is supported by strong Venture Capital Investments and corporate collaborations with the top Ag companies.

The team is excited to welcome new talent and personalities to the existing team that are motivated by technology and positive environmental & social change.

• Perform complete fermentation runs including validation and maintenance of production cultures, sterile materials preparation, inoculum flask steps, implementation of established R&Ddesigned processes and active participation in process development as required during R&D transition to manufacturing.
• Perform assays for biologics utilizing a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, spectrophotometric, chromatographic, electrophoretic, and other basic laboratory instrumentation.
• Perform downstream processing as required by the SOPs including final formulation steps, in close collaboration with both R&D, quality, and manufacturing teams.
• Develop robust, efficient, scalable strategies for improving upstream and/or downstream process performance.
• Thoroughly document and maintain detailed records of processing steps from raw materials to finished product including yield calculations and analysis of results aimed at performance improvements.
• Provides scientific technical support for technology transfer of processes to manufacturing on and offsite.
• Assists with onsite pilot plant activities including all upstream and harvest activities.
• Leads setup and maintenance and operation of bioprocess equipment.
• Learns operations of new equipment and procedures to support the growth requirements of the company.
• Participates in writing and/or supporting existing SOPs for manufacturing operations.
• Training new teammates on fermentation equipment operation and driving updates to SOPs.
• Communicate work by preparing effective presentation materials the larger company audience or external stake holders.
• Responsible for the cleanliness and sanitation of the work areas, and for enforcing work safety within these areas.
• Creativity, problem solving skills, a detail oriented and meticulous work attitude.
• Mechanical aptitude is critical skill for this job.

• Individuals with a bachelor's degree in biochemical engineering, microbiology or biotechnology are preferred, or those with equivalent education or experience. A Master's degree is desirable.
• Handson experience with microbial fermentation including operation of bench or pilot scale fermenters or bioreactors.
• Strong knowledge of microbiology and good aseptic technique is preferred.
• Familiarity with computercontrolled equipment within area of responsibility.
• A minimum of two years of industry experience is highly desirable.
• Technical strength in fermentation and downstream processing of biologicals and an understanding of impact factors that improve strain stability and process robustness, is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with the knowledge to maintain a safe work environment in accordance with policies, procedures, and regulations within area of responsibility.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• 401(k)
• 401(k)

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Relocation assistance
• Vision insurance

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

• Associate (preferred)