Job Description

About the Company:

ProFarm is an agricultural technology company on a mission to improve the food we eat in a way that benefits the grower, the consumer, and the entire industry. Headquartered in Davis, California, with a global footprint spanning Michigan to Finland, we deliver field-proven, biological solutions for pest management and plant health. By bridging the gap between sustainability and profitability, ProFarm helps modern growers optimize crop yields while protecting the planet. Learn more and join our mission at ProFarm.com.

SUMMARY:

ProFarm is seeking a Assistant Research Scientist III to join our bioprocessing and formulation team. This position requires experience in fermentation, formulation, aseptic techniques, instrumentation, analyses and data processing. This individual will be responsible for performing general housekeeping and maintenance operations in the fermentation and formulation labs, as well as perform independent research experiments.  There could also be some work related to downstream processing, such as centrifugation, tangential flow filtration etc..  A successful candidate will possess the ability to work well independently and perform routine tasks.  This position entails participation with scientists working on fermentation and formulation process-development from bench to pilot scale. Work will include development and testing of agricultural formulations.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Responsibilities include:

• Preparing formulation experimental prototypes.
• Preparation of R&D samples for customers and field studies.
• Analytical analysis of test formulations (physical chemistry, enrichment, bioassay)
• Fermentation media and process parameter development/optimization.
• Process optimization, scale-up and tech transfer. Some travel may be required.
• Downstream process development (purification, concentration etc.)
• Experimental planning, DOE and ANOVA
• Clean and organize work areas and equipment
• Store supplies and distribute a variety of items throughout the lab
• Maintain inventory of raw materials and supplies
• Prepare media and other solutions   
• Prepare equipment for upcoming experiments.
• Maintain written batch records
• Perform measurements on fermentation and formulation samples
• Perform equipment maintenance and repairs.
• Other duties as assigned

Additional skills that would be an advantage

• Knowledge of dry product processing (drying, handling etc.).
• Knowledge of SCADA systems, automation, database management and coding.
• Experience in agricultural formulations.
• Experience running bioefficacy tests.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• B.S. in biological science or engineering is required
• Minimum of 3 years experience in a relevant field
• Ability to work flexible hours preferred

ESSENTIAL MENTAL AND PHYSICAL ABILITIES:

• Ability to understand and follow simple oral and written directions
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with others
• Able to sit and/or stand for up to 2-4 hours at a time
•   Ability to lift 50 lbs.

COMPENSATION:

• ProFarm offers a comprehensive benefits package including a health plan including medical and dental coverage, life insurance coverage, long term disability, and a flexible spending account for dependent care and/or medical expenses.
• The above is a list of essential duties and responsibilities for this position. This list is not all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned. This job description may be modified as needed.
• ProFarm is an equal-opportunity employer. A pre-employment background check will be required.