Aqua Cultured Foods is an innovative food technology company disrupting the alternative protein space with the world’s first whole-muscle cut seafood alternative created through the process of microbial fermentation. Our novel technology produces a sustainable complete protein source using only a fraction of the resources required by traditional agriculture. As our global challenges with overfishing, climate change and feeding the world’s expanding population grows, our mission is to create delicious, nutrient-rich foods to feed our growing population and protect our oceans.
We are actively seeking a seasoned, passionate, driven, and ambitious Biomaterials Research Scientist to join us as a full-time team member.
POSITION
Reporting to our Director of R&D, selected individual will serve as an integral member of the technical team, focused on the development of novel food products. This individual will create, drive, and develop alternative seafood products from concept through commercialization.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Apply product development expertise to drive commercialization opportunities for Aqua Cultured Foods.
The role will add value to ingredients by providing a detailed understanding of the chemistry, characterization, and functionality of novel protein and fiber ingredients
Identify, study, and recognize ingredient interactions on a molecular level to direct the optimization of texture and other properties
Explores, identifies and implements use of new ingredients and technologies to advance our products and processes with a competitive edge and profitability.
Defines work plans, conducts experiments and writes project reports
Drive knowledge of the structure-function relationship of our raw material in novel alternative seafood products to propel product innovation.
Drive projects by providing project leadership and direction in both applied science and new product development.
Ensure instrumental characterization and structure function understanding are used appropriately.
Work closely with leadership team to evaluate new materials, including development of manufacturing processes to support pilot and commercial production.
REQUIREMENTS
Master’s Degree or PhD within food science, material science, or similar field.
Advanced formulation knowledge in starch/fiber systems and functionality along with protein functionality.
Preferred 2+ years industry experience.
Prior experience with synthetic biology and strain engineering techniques
Extensive experience incorporating living systems into materials.
Demonstrated ability to perform molecular assays.
Broad cell culture experience.
Experimental design knowledge and an ability to communicate verbally and written, with technical to non-technical team members.
Comfortable in a fast-paced translational environment and able to adjust scientific approach based upon changing priorities.
Ability to seek out collaborations and manage and mentor others.
CORE VALUES
Team building/Relationship Building – Develops relationships with people throughout the facility
Communication – Speaks and writes effectively, and keeps people up to date with information. Maintains lab notebooks and testing documentation
Innovation – Generates innovative ideas and solutions to problems and stimulates others to continuous improvement
COVID-19 VACCINE
In order to maintain a safe work environment, employees will be required to provide proof of vaccination on or before first day of employment.
LOCATION
Selected candidate will work on-site with our team in our office located at 213 W Institute Place, Suite 703 Chicago, IL, 60610. Remote work is not available for this role.
COMPANY BENEFITS
We offer a robust benefits package including paid time off, medical, dental and vision benefits.
NEXT STEPS:
To express your interest, please provide a short cover letter telling us why you’re perfect for this role, along with a resume detailing your experience.
Qualified Applicants will not require employer sponsored work authorization now or in the future for employment in the United States.
At Aqua Cultured Foods, we are committed to building a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workforce. We take being an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer seriously and do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act), or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.
