Fermentation Specialist

1. Area Description/ContextBraskem is seeking an exceptional and highly motivated Fermentation Specialist to join our Biotechnology team.
This role is responsible for the design, development and optimization of fermentation processes, ranging from microbioreactors to 20L bioreactors.
The Fermentation team works closely with the Strain Engineering group to screen and evaluate new strains, develop robust lab-to-bench scale fermentation processes, and serve as a key interface between the Biotechnology and Process Technology teams during scale-up transitions.
The successful candidate will plan, execute, and analyze experiments in milestone-driven R&D projects focused on renewable chemicals.
Strong technical expertise, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively and solve complex problems creatively are essential for success in this role.
2. Main responsibilities Plan, execute, and analyze fermentation experiments across multiple scales, from microplates to 20L bioreactors.
Perform data analysis using statistical tools to support process development and decision-making.
Present technical findings and updates to multidisciplinary teams in both technical and strategic contexts.
Develop, optimize, and execute physical-chemical and microbiological analyses of bioprocess samples.
Track, monitor, and report key performance indicators (KPIs) related to fermentation experiments and outcomes.
Create, maintain, and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), checklists, and safety assessments.
Collaborate with internal teams and external consultants to develop and refine fermentation protocols.
Work closely with process technology team to generate material for downstream experimentation and testing.
Work hand in hand with Fermentation Scale Up team to generate data packages for technology transfer of fermentation technologies Work closely with multidisciplinary teams located in Brazil and the USA, fostering strong cross-functional collaboration.
3. Requirements (Experience/ Qualifications) Education: Masters degree in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Bioprocess Engineering, or a related field is required; Ph.D. is a plus.
Experience: Over 10 years of hands-on laboratory experience with aseptic fermentation processes.
Strong expertise in metabolic engineering, microbial physiology, and cellular metabolism to support the rational design, development, and optimization of fermentation processes.
Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting fermentation bioreactor systems.
Experience with fermentation control software and statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab, or similar).
Demonstrated experience in technology transfer and scale-up of fermentation processes from lab to industrial scale is a plus.
Ability to integrate biological insights with process development to enhance strain performance, productivity, and process robustness.
Strong personal commitment to safety and adherence to safety protocols.
Detail-oriented with a strong drive to deliver and document high-quality results.
Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of managing multiple tasks efficiently.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated critical thinking and sound judgment in experimental design and decision-making.
Ability to follow detailed procedures and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
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