Website:
preferco.bio
Job details:
Job Title: Research Associate – Fermentation
Location: Hyderabad, India
Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented Research Associate to join our Fermentation team. The successful
candidate will support scientists in the execution, optimization, and documentation of microbial
fermentation experiments for the production of high-value molecules such as proteins, peptides,
enzymes, and specialty biomolecules. This laboratory-based role is ideal for candidates who enjoy
hands-on work, disciplined execution, and learning across fermentation development workflows.
You will work closely with the fermentation scientist and interdisciplinary teams-including strain
engineering, downstream processing, analytics, and engineering-to support day-to-day
experimentation, sample handling, equipment readiness, lab organization, and process data
collection from bench-scale studies.
Key Responsibilities
Fermentation Experiment Execution & Laboratory Support
- Support the planning and execution of shake flask and bench-scale fermentation experiments using microbial hosts systems.
- Assist in media, feed, buffer, and inoculum preparation for batch and fed-batch fermentation studies under the guidance of scientists.
- Operate and monitor shake flasks and laboratory fermenters for routine studies, including pH, temperature, agitation, aeration, and dissolved oxygen check as per approved protocols.
- Perform routine fermentation sampling, sample labelling, and coordination with analytical and downstream teams for timely analysis.
- Record basic process observations, culture performance trends, and deviations during experiments to support process optimization and troubleshooting.
- Assist with cleaning, sterilization, changeover, and readiness of fermenters, accessories, tubing, probes, and associated laboratory equipment.
Workflow Execution & Data Management
- Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, batch records, sample logs, and experimental records for fermentation trials.
- Compile and organize process data, analytical results, and experimental observations for review by the fermentation scientist and project teams.
- Support the preparation of standard operating procedures, checklists, equipment logbooks, and inventory records.
- Perform lab assistant responsibilities including media and reagent preparation, glassware management, autoclaving, consumables stocking, freezer and cold-room organization, and routine housekeeping of the fermentation laboratory.
- Assist in calibration checks, preventive maintenance coordination, and routine upkeep of balances, pH meters, pumps, and bench-scale bioreactor peripherals.
Collaboration & Project Support
- Work closely with fermentation scientists and cross-functional teams to execute project plans, timelines, and sample transfer activities.
- Support pilot or external run preparation by assisting with material staging, batch documentation, line-up checks, and post-run clean-up.
- Help maintain a safe and organized lab environment and adhere to all biosafety, equipment, and operational guidelines.
- Escalate equipment issues, experimental deviations, or inventory shortages in a timely manner to the relevant team members.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (B.Sc./M.Sc./B.Tech/M.Tech) in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Fermentation Technology, Microbiology, Bioprocess Engineering, or a related field.
- 1–2 years of relevant hands-on experience in microbial fermentation, upstream bioprocessing, or laboratory operations.
- Basic familiarity with microbiology techniques, aseptic handling, media preparation, and operation of shake flasks or laboratory fermenters.
- Practical understanding of laboratory measurements such as OD, pH, dry cell weight, sampling, and basic analytical coordination is desirable.
- Comfort working in a hands-on laboratory environment with strong discipline in execution, documentation, and cleanliness.
- Strong communication skills, attention to detail, willingness to learn, and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Preferred Experience
- Exposure to bench-scale fermentation studies, fed-batch workflows, or microbial process development is preferred.
- Prior experience in laboratory support activities such as autoclaving, media preparation, equipment cleaning, and consumables management is an advantage.
- Experience supporting production of recombinant proteins, enzymes, peptides, or specialty biomolecules is a plus.
Why Join Us?
- Join a mission-driven company solving global challenges through biomanufacturing innovation.
- Help build and scale India’s first full-stack precision fermentation platform.
- Be part of a fast-growing ecosystem with backing from global scientific and business leaders.
- Reconnect with India’s thriving biotech landscape—Hyderabad offers not only a robust innovation ecosystem but also an excellent quality of life, strong global connectivity, and a deep talent pool.
Interested candidates may reach out to us at: admin@preferco.bio
Click on Apply to know more.