Protein Production and Purification - Fermentation Scientist

Protein Production and Purification - Fermentation Scientist Associate | Full-time , Physical Life Sciences, Livermore, CA, Expiration: 06/26/2026 Reference #: REF8525U Job Code: SES.2 Science & Engineering MTS 2 Organization: Physical and Life Sciences Position Type: Flexible Term Security Clearance: None, no US citizenship required Drug Test Required for external applicants selected. Medical Exam not applicable. Job Description We seek a highly motivated Protein Production and Purification – Fermentation Scientist to support interdisciplinary projects focused on developing protein-based methods for rare earth separation. The role involves development and optimization of scalable fermentation processes for microbial protein expression and cost-effective downstream purification. Responsibilities Operate and maintain laboratory‑scale bioreactors for microbial protein expression. Support development, optimization, and execution of fermentation processes at bench and pilot scale. Develop, optimize, and refine downstream protein purification methods (chromatography, filtration, immobilization). Analyze experimental data and apply data‑driven approaches to improve yield, productivity, and reproducibility. Maintain detailed records; contribute to data analysis and communicate results to project teams. Support laboratory operations including equipment maintenance, media preparation, and safety compliance. Collaborate with scientists and engineers to troubleshoot workflows and support scale‑up efforts. Perform other related duties as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. Hands‑on experience independently conducting microbial fermentation experiments in bioreactors at bench or pilot scale. Experience with protein purification and downstream process optimization. Proficiency in sterile techniques and basic microbiology procedures. Strong problem‑solving, analytical, and organizational skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Experience with large‑scale bioreactors (≥50 L) and process scale‑up. Experience optimizing protein expression in bioreactors. Experience with column chromatography systems. Familiarity with molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, expression construct design). Pay Range $146,340 – $185,544 annually. Position Information Flexible Term appointment, for a definite period not to exceed six years. If the final candidate is a Career Indefinite employee, Career Indefinite status may be maintained (subject to funding). Drug Test External applicants selected for this position must pass a post‑offer, pre‑employment drug test, including testing for use of marijuana. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with NDAA Section 3112. Equal Opportunity Employment We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. Reasonable Accommodation Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request. Privacy Notice The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. Applicants are notified of what personal information LLNL collects and how it is used. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here. #J-18808-Ljbffr Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory