Fermentation Engineer II
BioSpace · Augusta, GA · 3 wk ago
EngineeringFull-time
Responsibilities
- Design and optimize fermentation processes (batch, fed-batch, continuous) for microbial or cell culture systems.
- Develop strategies to improve yield, productivity, titer, and process robustness.
- Conduct media optimization, feeding strategies, and metabolic performance analysis.
- Apply statistical tools (DOE, multivariate analysis) to accelerate process improvement.
- Lead fermentation scale-up activities from laboratory (bench-scale) to pilot and commercial manufacturing (e.g., 1L → 4,000L →40,000L).
- Identify and mitigate scale-dependent risks (mixing, oxygen transfer, heat removal, shear sensitivity).
- Support technology transfer to manufacturing sites or CMOs.
- Develop scale-down models to troubleshoot commercial process deviations.
- Process Characterization & Validation
- Define critical process parameters (CPPs) and critical quality attributes (CQAs).
- Support process characterization studies and regulatory submissions (as applicable).
- Develop control strategies for consistent production performance.
- Data Analysis & Digital Tools
- Analyze process data using advanced analytics, modeling, and visualization tools.
- Develop predictive models for fermentation performance and scale-up.
- Implement digital tools (PAT, soft sensors, automation strategies) to improve process control.
- Leadership & Collaboration
- Lead cross-functional project teams involving strain engineering, downstream processing, and manufacturing.
- Mentor junior engineers and scientists.
- Collaborate with external partners, equipment vendors, and academic collaborators.
- Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with EHS, GMP (if applicable), and regulatory guidelines.
- Design processes with safety, sustainability, and regulatory considerations in mind.
- PhD with 5+ years in Industrial Fermentation Sciences, Engineering or related field.
- Expertise in bench and pilot-scale fermentation process development.
- Expertise in microbial physiology.
- Experience statistical tools for media design.
- Critical thinker with enthusiasm for deriving solutions to complex challenges.