Senior Downstream Bioprocess Engineer

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a downstream bioprocess engineer to develop scalable purification processes for microbial biomanufacturing. Join an interdisciplinary team of microbiologists, metabolic engineers, and chemists working on innovative biotechnology solutions for national security challenges.

About the role

As the team's downstream processing expert, you will work closely with colleagues across multiple disciplines to recover, purify, and characterize microbially produced small molecules and metabolites. You will contribute to APL's mission by building expertise in molecular biology to address critical national security challenges.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize downstream processes for recovery and purification of microbially produced small molecules and metabolites.
• Design and execute experiments to improve process performance and characterize biomanufacturing products using analytical chemistry techniques.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers to develop innovative biotechnology solutions for national security applications.
• Lead technical efforts on internally and externally funded research projects, including project planning, execution, and communication of results.
• Contribute to the growth of our research portfolio by developing new technical concepts, writing proposals, and building relationships with sponsors and collaborators.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 1+ year of postdoctoral research experience.
• Experience developing downstream processing methods for microbial production of small molecules or metabolites.
• Experience developing and applying analytical chemistry methods, including HPLC, LC/MS, GC/MS, or related techniques.
• Experience designing, executing, and troubleshooting laboratory experiments for purification, characterization, and process optimization.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated through publications, presentations, or related experience.
• Ability to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level clearance (U.S. citizenship required).

Qualifications (Preferred)

• Experience engineering microbial metabolic pathways or microbial strain development.
• Experience with yeast or non-model microorganisms.
• Experience scaling microbial bioprocesses from bench to pilot scale.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques used to support bioprocess development.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary research projects or developing research proposals.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. Our vibrant, welcoming atmosphere fosters creativity, growth, and collaboration among inspiring teammates. APL offers generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. Located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area, APL provides opportunities to work on impactful projects while supporting personal and professional development.

Pay

Minimum Rate: $105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate: $290,000 Annually

Benefits

• Comprehensive retirement plans.
• Paid time off.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Education assistance and training/development opportunities.
• Potential bonuses, sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.