Scientist I - Product & Process Development

Novonesis•Salem, VA

4d•$75,000 - $105,000•Onsite

About The Position

At Novonesis, we turn science into biological solutions that make a real difference in the world. As a Scientist I in our Microbial Pilot Plant team, you will play a key role in advancing fermentation processes and supporting innovation from lab to production. You will join a collaborative, cross-functional environment where science, engineering, and manufacturing come together to develop scalable bioprocess solutions. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to product development, process optimization, and technology transfer that enable sustainable solutions at scale.

Requirements

PhD in Microbiology, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Fermentation Science, or related field OR Master’s degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience OR Bachelor’s degree with at least 8 years of relevant experience
Hands-on experience in microbial fermentation, bioprocess development, or pilot plant operations
Strong understanding of microbial physiology and fermentation processes
Experience designing and executing experiments independently
Ability to analyze complex datasets and derive sound scientific conclusions
Proven ability to lead technical projects and manage multiple priorities
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to collaborate across functions and communicate with diverse stakeholders
Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence
Scientific rigor and curiosity
Technical leadership
Problem solving and troubleshooting
Data-driven decision making
Collaboration and adaptability

Nice To Haves

Experience with bacterial fermentation systems
Experience with bench-scale and pilot-scale bioreactors
Familiarity with scale-up principles, oxygen transfer, feeding strategies, and productivity optimization
Experience with statistical tools and data analysis platforms (e.g., DoE, JMP, R, Python)
Experience supporting technology transfer to manufacturing
Familiarity with GMP, GLP, ISO, or other regulated environments

Responsibilities

Lead and execute fermentation experiments that support strain, process, and product development.
Translate experimental insights into actionable recommendations that drive business, R&D, and manufacturing outcomes.
Planning, designing, and executing microbial fermentation experiments at lab and pilot scale
Leading fermentation projects from experimental design through execution, analysis, and reporting
Developing and optimizing fermentation processes, including media, feeding strategies, and process parameters
Operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining pilot-scale fermentation systems and monitoring tools
Applying experimental design methodologies (e.g., DoE) to improve process understanding
Analyzing data and delivering clear technical reports and presentations
Communicating project progress, risks, and recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders
Supporting technology transfer activities, including process documentation and training
Collaborating with R&D, manufacturing, quality, regulatory, and business teams
Ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and documentation standards
Contributing to continuous improvement of pilot plant operations and best practices