Biomaterials Scientist

Position Type: Full-Time

Compensation: Annual salary $80,000 - $90,000 and performance-based bonuses

Location: On-site, Vacaville, CA

Nexture Bio is seeking a skilled and motivated Biomaterials Scientist to help drive the development of advanced biomaterials to enable the field of cell-cultured meat and support the development and implementation of a scale-up strategy for materials production. This full-time in-person position in Vacaville, CA will work in a GMP facility where you will support R&D and production.

The ideal candidate will be a technical expert and have hands-on experience with the forming of biopolymers through various methods (e.g., electrospinning equipment and/or various shaping, spraying, and fiber spinning or extruding techniques) contributing to innovative product development and process optimization. Additionally, this role will work with external partners to investigate scale-up manufacturing methods and tech transfer existing formulations to these new methods. This role reports directly to the VP of Research & Development.

Nexture Bio develops animal-component-free microcarriers, scaffolds, and cell-attachment factors made with ingredients that are safe and suitable for use in food products. Nexture Bio is a Generation Food Rural Partners (GFRP) portfolio company, launched in December 2023.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and scale up biomaterial products for mass production.
• Lead internal pilot-scale production and tech transfer for biomaterial products.
• Operate and maintain equipment for experimental and production activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including tissue engineers, product developers, and R&D staff. Occasional travel may be required; approximately 10% time.
• Document research findings, methods, and production techniques, ensuring traceability and reproducibility.
• Stay up-to-date with industry advancements and integrate new technologies into Nexture Bio's processes.
• Advise the management team on product and patent development and present work to peers, reviewers, conferences, and customers
• Provide customer support and service.
• Troubleshooting upstream and downstream equipment operations.
• Maintain and execute the Preventive Maintenance Program and offer process improvements.
• Leading training initiatives on reliability improvements, ensuring operators are up to date and compliant on new processes.
• Support a dynamic operations team and build systems with them.
• Lead project efforts to support company-wide goals to scale the cultivated meat industry.
• Commission and validate new equipment.
• Be ready to thrive in a startup environment by taking on any task as needed.
  
  

Skills And Qualifications

• Background in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Bachelor's degree with 6 years, Master's degree with 3 years, or PhD with postdoctoral studies in scale-up and manufacturing of polymer materials or biomaterials.
• Proficiency with electrospinning equipment is preferred and experience with electrospraying, extrusion techniques, and other processes, including covalent conjugation and synthesis a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a keen attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
• Industry experience in a GMP environment is preferred.
• Familiarity with plant proteins and food science preferred.
  
  

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Collaborative and supportive company culture.
• Cutting-edge research environment with state-of-the-art equipment.
  
  

Application Process

Please submit a resume and cover letter via LinkedIn. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until this position is filled. If you do not send both a resume and a cover letter, your application will not be considered.

Research shows that women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA candidates are less likely to apply for positions if they don't meet the exact criteria that have been specified in writing. Your skills matter – they matter to us and we believe that our diversity, uniqueness, and individual experiences and perspectives make us an impactful organization.

We look forward to hearing from you!