We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Associate Scientist to join our Pilot Plant team. As an Associate Scientist, you will play a crucial role in the development and execution of experimental protocols and procedures within our Pilot Plant facility. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will contribute to the scale-up and optimization of processes for the manufacturing of our innovative products. 

Essential Functions 

• Design, plan, and execute fermentation experiments across multiple volumes and bioreactor systems.  
• Mentor and lead research associate team throughout execution of fermentation experiments.   
• Process, analyze, and interpret fermentation data to maximize the understanding of strain performance and tested process parameters.  
• Present experiment findings to multidisciplinary teams.  
• Support the optimization fermentation operations and laboratory workflow. Benchling experience is a plus. 
• Support setup and troubleshooting of pilot plant 5 L, 20 L, and 100 L bioreactors.  
• Evening/nights and weekend work may be required on occasions.  

Education and Experience 

• MS with 5 years experience OR BS with 7 years experience in microbiology, fermentation or relevant field  
• Experience with scaling up fermentation equipment at bench, pilot, and production 
• Experience with E. coli is a plus  
• Experience in batch control and QA/QC 
• The ability to work in a team-oriented environment 
• Demonstrated track record of working on teams cross-functionally to exceed goals 
• Analytical, detail-oriented, self-motivated, and adaptable 
• Motivated by a sense of urgency, attention to detail, and an engrained penchant for professional development of themselves and their co-workers 
• Must be willing to work non-standard hours supporting a 24/7 operation including weekends 

Essential Physical Characteristics 

The physical characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.  

• Continuous upward and downward flexion of the neck.   
• Frequent: sitting, repetitive use of hands to operate computers, printers and copiers.   
• Frequently uses hands to feel objects or control tools (e.g. pipetting).  Laboratory operations require dexterity and care to perform studies as required.  
• Occasional: walking, standing, climbing stairs, bending and twisting of neck, bending and twisting of waist, squatting, simple grasping, reaching above and below shoulder level, and occasional lifting and carrying of files or material weighing up to 50 pounds.  
• Must be willing to work with biohazardous agents (up to BSL2) and chemicals.  
• The R&D laboratory will result in exposure to hot and cold temperatures, noise, fumes, limited dust, and oily coolants.  
• The performance of this position will present exposure to an industrial environment and requires support and compliance with the published Company PPE policy including but not limited to the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses with side shields, appropriate attire, safety shoes, hard hat, hearing protection, etc.  

Condition of Employment 

As part of Debut’s pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check prior to beginning employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position. 

Debut is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status. 

Salary: $80,000 - $100,000