Scientist I, UV Sterilization

Biosphere is developing next-generation biomanufacturing systems designed for scale, reliability, and cost efficiency. The company serves as a manufacturing partner for the bioeconomy, supporting the production of food, fuels, chemicals, and materials through efficient, rapidly deployable systems. We are funded by top technology investors and have multiple ongoing collaborations with the DOW. Learn more at https://www.biosphere.io/about

About the Role

We are looking for an R&D Scientist to drive the development and validation of our core UV sterilization technology. This role is based in our R&D lab and is central to proving out the science behind our platform. You will design and run experiments, analyze data, and translate findings into sterilization solutions for industrial-scale bioreactors.

This is a great fit for someone who recently completed a PhD and wants outsized impact at an early-stage company working on hard, meaningful problems. This role is expected to be in person.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments to develop and optimize UV sterilization processes for bioreactor applications.
• Develop and validate sterilization and cleaning protocols (SIP/CIP) that meet or exceed industry standards.
• Work with and direct research associates and technicians in planning and executing cleaning and UV sterilization experiments.
• Collaborate with process engineering to translate R&D findings into scalable sterilization processes for the demonstration facility.
• Document experimental work thoroughly and present findings to the team.

Qualifications

• PhD in chemical engineering, microbiology, biochemistry, bioengineering, food science, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Candidates with a BS or MS and relevant experience will also be considered.
• Strong microbiology bench skills including aseptic technique, culture maintenance, and quantitative microbial assays.
• Experience with experimental design, statistical analysis, and data visualization.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience leading research efforts, defining experimental direction, and coordinating across technical teams.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with bioprocess equipment or bioreactor operations.
• Background in sterilization validation.
• Understanding of SIP/CIP best practices for the bioprocess, pharmaceutical, dairy, or food/beverage industry.
• Mechanically minded.

Benefits

At Biosphere, our goal is to empower talented individuals who are driven by the desire to work on tackling society's biggest challenges. To that end, we take pride in striving to be an equal opportunity employer with a healthy work culture, creating an environment where high performers can thrive. We currently offer the following benefits:

• Competitive compensation through a mix of salary and equity.
• Unlimited paid vacation and sick/leave days + public holidays.
• Comprehensive health insurance for employees and their dependents, including dental and vision.
• Paid family leave.
• Membership at Pacific Pipe Climbing gym next door.

This Role Might Be For You If You:

• Want to be the person who builds the experimental foundation for a new technology.
• Are excited about biomanufacturing and want to make it more accessible.
• Thrive in small teams where your work directly shapes the company's trajectory.

Biosphere is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.