Senior Research Associate, Fermentation

At 21st.BIO, we're not just another biotech company, we are the vanguards of a revolution. Fueled by the determination to shape a more sustainable world, we are developing a technology platform that will profoundly disrupt the global landscape. Our dream? To engineer the future of sustainable foods and materials through the art of fermentation.

Our Team

Our R&D facility in Davis, California, integrates expertise across strain engineering, protein and analytical chemistry, and lab-scale fermentation. We are a fast-growing, innovative team that values trust, respect, and scientific curiosity. Collaboration across disciplines is central to our culture, fueling bold ideas and breakthrough results that advance the frontiers of biotechnology.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail‑oriented Senior Research Associate, Fermentation, to support the daily operations of our fermentation laboratory. You will work closely with scientists and technicians to ensure smooth execution of lab workflows and contribute to the advancement of our precision fermentation portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and sterilize equipment, materials, and media for use in fermentation processes
• Set up and monitor bench-scale and high-throughput screening experiments, ensuring process conditions remain within the defined operating parameters
• Identify process deviations and troubleshoot issues
• Collect, process, and interpret experimental samples and data to support process development objectives
• Record data accurately and maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) and spreadsheets
• Maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment
• Maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment and dispose of hazardous waste according to established protocols
• Support experimental planning, data interpretation, and communication of results to cross-functional teams
• Follow all safety procedures and adhere to laboratory guidelines
• Communicate effectively with team members
• Provide flexibility to support critical experiments, including weekend work as needed

Requirements

• Master's Degree (preferred) or Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Engineering, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 4 – 7 years of relevant experience
• Demonstrated passion for expanding technical expertise in precision fermentation and bioprocess development
• Hands-on experience with precision fermentation, including both practical execution and underlying scientific principles
• Skilled in working using aseptic techniques
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced cross-functional team environment
• Strong problem-solving, organizational and communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, experience with JMP is a plus
• Preferred: Experience with Sartorius Ambr 250 or other high‑throughput, automated bioreactor systems, familiarity with stainless steel bioreactor operations and scale-up activities, experience working with laboratory automation systems

Joining our team means

• Personal and professional growth in a hub of innovation and disruptive thinking
• A supportive workplace where your growth, well-being, and empowerment come first
• The opportunity to work alongside a team of industry experts
• A competitive salary and benefits package

Why 21st.BIO?

We may still be a small company, but we dream big. We're a vibrant consortium of thinkers, researchers, and visionaries bound by the shared dream of a greener tomorrow.

Based in Søborg (Denmark) and Davis (California), we work with our customers to accelerate the World’s quest for new sustainable food and materials. We build a competitive technology and manufacturing foundation to enable the commercialization of new, innovative products that are more sustainable than traditional offerings.

We support our customers from strain development to scale-up, with the objective of bringing their products successfully to market.

More info

The position is expected to be in-person at our vibrant R&D site in Davis, CA.

If you want to hear more about the position and the company, please contact Kris Tyner at ***email_hidden***

21st.BIO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

The annual base pay range for this role is between $72,000 and $87,000 USD.