Principal Scientist, Fermentation

About Pivot Bio:  

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of microbiology, genomics, crop nutrition and agriculture, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in fertilizer technology. Our first commercial product harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes, modern gene editing and application technologies to provide nitrogen to crops.  We are dedicated to providing new solutions for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population. Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on Forbes or PBS News Hour.

Pivot Bio seeks an experienced, Senior People Leader and Fermentation Scientist Expert to build and lead our new Microbial Fermentation Process Development Team at our new R&D campus in Hazelwood, MO. The team is an integral part of Pivot Bio’s Product Innovation organization working closely with the Downstream Process Development Team Lead, as well as our Discovery, Application Research, Manufacturing and QC teams at our new R&D campus. 

Reporting to the Vice President of Microbial Fermentation & Downstream Process Development, this leader will be responsible for the fermentation bioprocess development of a diverse range of gene-edited Gram-negative Nitrogen fixating bacteria. The department’s key objective is to deliver industrial scalable bioprocesses of live microbial cells maintaining viability and functionality for a variety of product applications and shelf-life conditions. 

This role calls for an accomplished fermentation development leader who brings energy, creativity and agility while delivering against goals. Cross collaboration in a matrix product innovation organization is critical for success to ensure alignment to company goals. Preferred candidates bring experience and genuine interest in people, processes and technology development; the preferred candidate has a strategic mindset coupled with a clear communication style. 

Location:  Hazelwood, MO with occasional travel to CMO and third-party company sites. This role is an on-site role. 
 

Core Responsibilities: 

• Help build, develop, and lead a world class fermentation team at our new R&D campus. Be an inspirational leader and mentor for the fermentation team and across the organization 

• Drive multi-disciplinary projects in a matrix product innovation organization to ensure alignment of company goals 

• Set goals, priorities, and initiatives based on strategic goals, scientific rationale and financial return on investment for the fermentation department 

• Execute on company strategy and department OKRs 

• Provide technical guidance, resource allocation, project planning, and people management 

• Responsible for the department CAPEX and OPEX budgets 

• Manage multiple projects simultaneously and project teams for development of high throughput screening and bench scale fermentation and downstream processes 

• Evaluate and implement new technologies and methods for plate and tank-based fermentation and downstream models, microbioreactors, and relevant software tools 

• Participate in the development of Pivot Bio data platform for automated data processing with software, automation, and data science teams 

• Develop a culture of lab ownership, focusing on optimal workflows, safety, and quality 

• Implement and manage an Innovation LEAN culture 

Required Skills and Experience:  

• PhD in Microbiology, Fermentation/Biochemical Engineering, or a related field. At least 12 years of relevant industrial experience managing science-based teams with a track record of delivering against scientific and business goals 

• Experience in developing a strong scientific and interpersonal team. Genuine passion for leadership of people, processes, and technologies 

• Provide expert scientific and technical guidance on research & development projects 

• Track record of developing microbial-based processes. Ideally of live microorganisms for commercial use and agricultural applications 

• Track record of taking products from lab scale to commercial scale manufacturing, including process scale-up, tech transfer and continuous process improvement 

• Strategic and practical experience with implementing new technologies and methods for plate and tank-based fermentation and downstream models, microbioreactors, and relevant software tools 

• Experience in the development of data platforms for automated data processing with software, automation, and data science teams 

• Experience in operating in a matrix organization 

• Experience with relevant LEAN tools for R&D workflow optimization, including Value Stream Mapping 

Must Be Authorized to Work in the United States

What We Offer: 

• Sales Incentive Bonus Plan
• Competitive package in a disruptive startup 
• Stock options 
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums 
• Life, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies 
• Employee Assistance Program with free referrals and discounts 
• 401(k) plan, 3% Match 
• Commuter benefits 
• Annual Training & Development support 
• Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule 
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team