About Us:

Microbial Discovery Group (MDG) is an R&D-driven product development and Bacillus fermentation company. We apply Real Science to a Trusted Process, yielding Proven Success for our partners. At MDG, we recognize the need for sustainable solutions to the world’s largest problems, and we work to solve them as part of our mission to Feed, Clean, Save the World. As a member of our team, your ideas and innovations are integral to who we are. Come grow with us!

Position Summary:

MDG is currently looking for a highly motivated scientist to become a member of our Fermentation Research and Development team. The individual must be goal-oriented, forward-thinking and self-motivated with a strong ability to work both independently and collaboratively with other teams. The candidate must possess a strong foundation in optimizing and developing scale-up fermentation processes with specific knowledge of fed-batch strategies or related technologies. The ideal candidate must have a strong foundation in microbiology, molecular biology, and/or computational biology. This is predominantly a lab-based role focusing on fundamental research to better understand the biology of our Bacillus and other microbial organisms.

Responsibilities:

• Develop new or improve existing culture medium for microbial strains.
• Develop new or improve existing fermentation process parameters, such as, fed-batch or other related feeding strategies.
• Develop strategies to improve the overall reliability and productivity of fermentation processes at MDG.
• Collaborate with production, process development and QC teams to identify problems or opportunities for continuous improvements.
• Independently selects techniques and procedures to solve problems within area of responsibility.
• Develop, evaluate and implement detailed experimental projects within area of responsibility.
• Analyze data, draw conclusions, present project results and make recommendations to management team.
• Assists in managing the daily workflow of the laboratory.
• Handle and protect confidential and sensitive data with integrity.
• Perform related work and other duties, as assigned.

• Applied and functional knowledge of specialized skillsets such as; high throughput screening methods, scale-up processes, fed-batch and batch fermentation.
• Experience with LC-MS and flow cytometry preferred, but not required.
• Previous experience and safety knowledge working with a range of microbial organisms.
• Knowledge of effective and safe laboratory and experimental procedures.
• Knowledge of the proper use and preparation of culture media, chemicals, and reagents.
• Knowledge of microbiology techniques, terminology, equipment and supplies.
• Requires strong analytical ability to handle data and results.
• Requires high problem solving and critical thinking skills.
• Champion of our cultural values.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal/human relations skills.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions effectively.
• Ability to maintain records accurately.
• Ability to complete projects within specified timelines.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision.
• Ability to operate a personal computer with capabilities to utilize Microsoft Office and Outlook.

• Bachelor’s degree in science or related field or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 1-3 years of relevant experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Functional and applied knowledge involving laboratory techniques or other specialized knowledge is desired.

• Majority of work is conducted in a laboratory environment and may include occasional exposure to cold temperatures.
• Work includes lifting (up to 30 lbs.) and frequent use of hands for handling objects, tools, and controls.
• May be exposed to airborne particles and chemicals used in fermentation production facilities.

• Mandated use of company-issued Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Adherence to all company safety procedures and regulations to maintain a safe working environment.