Protein Production and Purification - Fermentation Scientist

LLNL•Livermore, CA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) is seeking a highly motivated Protein Production and Purification - Fermentation Scientist to support an interdisciplinary project focused on developing protein-based methods for rare earth separation. You will support the development and optimization of scalable fermentation processes for microbial protein expression and in developing and optimizing cost-effective downstream protein purification methods. This position requires strong experimental skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers. This position requires full-time on-site presence.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
Hands-on experience independently conducting microbial fermentation experiments in bioreactors at the bench or pilot scale
Experience with protein purification and downstream process optimization.
Proficiency in sterile techniques and basic microbiology procedures.
Strong problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience with large-scale bioreactors (≥50L) and process scale-up.
Experience with optimizing protein expression in bioreactors.
Experience with column chromatography systems
Familiarity with molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, expression construct design).

Responsibilities

Operate and maintain laboratory-scale bioreactors for microbial protein expression.
Support the development, optimization, and execution of fermentation processes at bench and pilot scale.
Develop, optimize, and refine downstream protein purification methods (e.g., chromatography, filtration, protein immobilization).
Analyze experimental data and apply data-driven approaches to improve yield, productivity, and reproducibility
Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records; contribute to data analysis, summarize and communicate results to project teams.
Support laboratory operations including equipment maintenance, media preparation, and safety compliance.
Collaborate with scientists and engineers to troubleshoot workflows and support scale-up efforts.
Perform other related duties as assigned.