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Scientist I - Product & Process Development at Novonesis · Salem -…
Job Description
Scientist I - Product & Process Development
Location: Salem - Virginia · No
Interested in a career that matters?

At Novonesis, we turn science into biological solutions that make a real difference in the world. As a Scientist I in our Microbial Pilot Plant team, you will play a key role in advancing fermentation processes and supporting innovation from lab to production.
You will join a collaborative, cross-functional environment where science, engineering, and manufacturing come together to develop scalable bioprocess solutions. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to product development, process optimization, and technology transfer that enable sustainable solutions at scale.
The Role & Your Impact
As a Scientist I – Microbial Pilot Plant, you will lead and execute fermentation experiments that support strain, process, and product development. You will translate experimental insights into actionable recommendations that drive business, R&D, and manufacturing outcomes.
Key responsibilities include:
Planning, designing, and executing microbial fermentation experiments at lab and pilot scale
Leading fermentation projects from experimental design through execution, analysis, and reporting
Developing and optimizing fermentation processes, including media, feeding strategies, and process parameters
Operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining pilot-scale fermentation systems and monitoring tools
Applying experimental design methodologies (e.g., DoE) to improve process understanding
Analyzing data and delivering clear technical reports and presentations
Communicating project progress, risks, and recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders
Supporting technology transfer activities, including process documentation and training
Collaborating with R&D, manufacturing, quality, regulatory, and business teams
Ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and documentation standards
Contributing to continuous improvement of pilot plant operations and best practices
What You’ll Need to Be Successful
PhD in Microbiology, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Fermentation Science, or related field
ORMaster’s degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience
ORBachelor’s degree with at least 8 years of relevant experience
Hands-on experience in microbial fermentation, bioprocess development, or pilot plant operations
Strong understanding of microbial physiology and fermentation processes
Experience designing and executing experiments independently
Ability to analyze complex datasets and derive sound scientific conclusions
Proven ability to lead technical projects and manage multiple priorities
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to collaborate across functions and communicate with diverse stakeholders
Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence
Core competencies:
Scientific rigor and curiosity
Technical leadership
Problem solving and troubleshooting
Data-driven decision making
Collaboration and adaptability
Additional Skills & Interests We Value
Experience with bacterial fermentation systems
Experience with bench-scale and pilot-scale bioreactors
Familiarity with scale-up principles, oxygen transfer, feeding strategies, and productivity optimization
Experience with statistical tools and data analysis platforms (e.g., DoE, JMP, R, Python)
Experience supporting technology transfer to manufacturing
Familiarity with GMP, GLP, ISO, or other regulated environments
What We Offer
Opportunities to work on cutting-edge biotechnology and fermentation innovation
A collaborative and inclusive environment where science and impact go hand in hand
Professional development and career growth within a global organization
Cross-functional exposure across R&D, manufacturing, and business teams
A culture that values curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Ways of Working / Working Conditions
Work is conducted in laboratory and pilot plant environments
Hands-on operation of fermentation systems and handling of biological materials is required
May require flexible scheduling to support fermentation runs, sampling, and troubleshooting
Collaboration across teams and functions is a key part of the role
Compensation & Benefits
Pay Range: $75,000-$105,000 (Compensation will be aligned with experience, qualifications, and market benchmarks.)
Benefits you will enjoy:
401(k) with up to a 9% company contribution
Minimum of 3 weeks of vacation plus 12 holidays and 2 weeks of Wellness Time
Health, Dental, Vision & Life insurance
Healthcare savings account option with generous employer contribution
Employee assistance program
Parental leave
Tuition reimbursement
All benefits begin on your first day
Relevant Information
Application deadline: August 28, 2026
Our purpose guides the way
In Novonesis, we know that solutions rooted in biology can help solve humanity’s biggest challenges. Since we began more than a century ago, this has been our guide. It’s how we've gotten so far. And it’s how we'll impact the future. Now, more than ever, the world needs change. And with biosolutions, the possibilities for transformation are endless. If our purpose resonates with you, we encourage you to apply.
Opportunities for everyone
We are committed to an inclusive recruitment process and equal opportunity for all applicants. Therefore we ask you to apply without a cover letter or photo and instead include a few sentences in your CV explaining your motivation for applying.
We make all employment decisions based on business needs and welcome candidates with a wide range of backgrounds, including ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.
Explore other openings
If this position isn’t the right fit, you may still find other opportunities with us. You’re welcome to explore open roles or create a job agent to stay connected with future opportunities at novonesis.com/Career