Company Introduction:

Founded in 2004, SignalChem Biotech is a world’s leader in the research, development, and manufacturing of active kinases and disease-relevant kinase mutants. With expertise in cellular signaling, molecular biology, and biochemistry, SignalChem has developed over 4,000 functional recombinant protein products, establishing itself as a key player in the global market for active recombinant signaling enzymes. Recently acquired by Sino Biological, a world-renowned reagent supplier and contract research organization listed on ChiNext of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (301047 Sino Biological Inc.).

SignalChem is now expanding its capabilities and creating multiple new positions.

:

SignalChem Biotech Inc. is seeking an experienced, industry-focused Research Scientist specializing in upstream microbial bioprocessing. This role will lead the optimization, scale-up, and execution of bacterial and yeast fermentation platforms to support recombinant protein production. The ideal candidate brings proven industrial experience in bench-to-pilot scale bioreactor operations, medium optimization, and process development, combined with strong molecular biology and protein purification fundamentals to drive new and existing product pipelines.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead Upstream Bioprocess Development: Design, optimize, and execute high-density microbial fermentation workflows (batch, fed-batch, and continuous) using E. coli and yeast (Pichia pastoris, Saccharomyces cerevisiae) expression systems.
- Bioreactor Operation & Scale-Up: Set up, calibrate, operate, and troubleshoot bench-and pilot-scale bioreactors/fermenters (1 L to 10 L+), optimizing critical process parameters (DO, pH, feed rates, agitation, temperature, and induction kinetics).
- Process Optimization & Tech Transfer: Refine fermentation medium recipes, feed strategies,



and growth parameters to maximize volumetric yield and protein quality; support downstream purification teams and tech transfer into manufacturing.
- Experimental Rigor & Data Analysis: Monitor in-process metrics (OD600, wet/dry cell weight, metabolite profiles), perform rigorous statistical analysis, and author detailed technical reports, SOPs, and batch records.
- Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement: Proactively identify upstream bottlenecks, investigate yield variations or contamination risks, and implement robust corrective actions.

Required Qualifications

- Education & Experience: Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related field with 2+ years of direct industrial/biotech experience; OR an M.Sc. with 5+ years of relevant industry experience in microbial fermentation and bioprocess development.
- Microbial Fermentation Expertise: Hands-on proficiency in operating automated bench-scale fermenters/bioreactors for both bacterial (E. coli) and yeast expression platforms.
- Communication & Execution: Demonstrated ability to drive projects independently in a fast-paced commercial environment, with robust documentation habits and cross-functional team skills.

Preferred Qualifications

- Industrial Scale-Up: Demonstrated experience scaling microbial processes from shake flasks to pilot-scale vessels.
- Downstream Integration: Hands-on experience with primary recovery, chromatography (affinity, IEX, SEC), and automated purification systems (e.g., ÄKTA).

Job Type: Full-time Pay: From $70,000.00 per year

Benefits

- Company events
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- In office parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care

Application question(s):
- Do you have experience in recombinant protein production and downstream purification (ÄKTA, affinity, IEX, or SEC)?
- Do you have hands-on industrial experience in microbial fermentation and upstream bioprocess development?
- Do you have a Ph.D. with 2+ years of relevant industry experience OR an M.Sc. with 5+ years of relevant industry experience?

Education:
- Master's Degree (required)

Work Location: In person

📌 Research Scientist – Microbial Fermentation & Protein Production (Richmond)
🏢 Signalchem Biotech
📍 Richmond