Senior Bioprocess Scientist / Engineer

OpenAI•Champaign, IL

4d•$90,000 - $110,000

About The Position

The Senior Bioprocess Scientist/Engineer will work closely with the CSO and data science teams. The right candidate has substantial lab and/or plant experience across diverse bioprocesses and microbial systems, a strong command of software tools, and an enthusiasm for software development. This role leads all efforts to support the development and improvement of our AI-powered optimization software for fermentation and purification processes at bench, pilot, and production scale. Responsibilities include designing experiments and generating data to enhance bioprocess parameters for proteins, lipids, amino acids, organic acids, polysaccharides, hydrocolloids, and enzymes across bacterial, yeast, and fungal systems. While highly technical, the role requires regular engagement with clients, research organizations, and CDMO partners. Prospective candidates should understand that success requires technical expertise, but it also involves empathy, prompt communication, and a general client-service orientation.

Requirements

Ph.D. or M.Sc. in chemical or bioprocess engineering, biotechnology, biosciences, or a related field
At least 3–5 years of hands-on industry experience in bioprocess development and unit operations
Deep technical understanding and practical knowledge of microbial cultivation (bioreactor) and downstream processing — including centrifugation, filtration, precipitation, TFF, extraction, and drying — at bench and pilot scale
Proficiency in DoE and statistical tools for process optimization and characterization (QbD)
Experience with LIMS or similar data management systems
Proven experience producing bioproducts from diverse microbial hosts including bacteria, yeast, and fungi
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to independently troubleshoot and resolve complex process challenges
Excellent communication and collaboration skills for working with internal teams, clients, and external partners
Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Nice To Haves

Bioprocess scale-up experience applying process engineering principles
Experience authoring SOPs and technical transfer documents
Understanding of microbial metabolism and its impact on product characteristics during optimization
Experience working in regulated environments (food grade, cGMP, APHIS, BSL-2)
Familiarity with Python scripting and Jupyter notebooks

Responsibilities

Lead and manage bioprocess development projects, ensuring timely delivery and successful outcomes; provide technical expertise and guidance on experimental planning, process development, and troubleshooting
Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments to optimize and scale-up fermentation and purification processes across bacterial, yeast, and fungal hosts for a range of products including proteins, lipids, amino acids, organic acids, polysaccharides, hydrocolloids, and enzymes
Act as a key liaison between the bioprocess and data science teams
Generate and analyze data to drive improvement of our AI-powered optimization software; prepare technical reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements in bioprocessing and apply insights to process and software optimization
Mentor junior scientists and engineers, providing technical guidance and supporting their professional development
Identify and lead initiatives to improve company workflows and operational excellence

Benefits

Salary of $90,000 to $110,000 depending on qualifications and experience.
Relocation assistance (if applicable)
Complete benefit package, including 401K match, ESOP, health, life, vision, and dental insurance, and four weeks paid vacation.
Significant company stock options.
Sponsorship and adjustment of work visas and immigration related support (must be currently a resident of the United States)

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