Microbiology Technician

Chicago, IL
Research & Development /
Contractor /
On-site
Nature’s Fynd is a groundbreaking food tech company born out of NASA-supported research on extremophiles in the geothermal pools of Yellowstone National Park. Our novel fermentation technology produces a sustainable source of complete protein using only a fraction of the resources required by traditional agriculture. As the challenge to feed the world’s expanding population grows, our mission is to create amazing foods and materials that provide sustainable choices and nurture the planet.

We’re looking for passionate, driven, and ambitious people to join our fast-growing team.

Position responsibilities:

    • Will be responsible for working with senior staff in evaluating biological processes in a hands-on role at the laboratory to pilot scale and identify optimal processes/methods/equipment
    • Develop, produce, and maintain stocks of common laboratory media
    • Monitor the details of experiments and notify scientists if the process deviates from normal or expected values
    • Plan/organize daily tasks based on the provided experimental schedule
    • Provide support to analytical research and development teams
    • Establish quality, performance, and sustainability standards in the laboratory
    • Keep detailed records of results using an electronic laboratory notebook
    • Maintain work area and equipment to be safe, clean, and functional
    • Work closely with cross-functional talent from the Research and Development, Business, and Manufacturing teams
    • Experience with stirred tank reactors and fermenters is a plus

Experience:

    • Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field of study
    • 1-2 years of experience in a microbiology laboratory setting is preferred
    • Experience with standard microbiological laboratory methods including sterile techniques and biosafety 
    • Experience with molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis
    • Data analysis and interpretation including presentation of findings
    • Computer skills in data spreadsheet, word processing, and PowerPoint presentation programs

Personal Qualifications:

    • Demonstrated ability to work in a team-focused environment
    • Willingness to learn and adapt new techniques to best suit project needs
    • Excellent oral and written communication skills
    • Focus on personal and team safety
    • Strong project planning, organization, and time management skills
    • Emphasis on personal transparency and accountability
    • Comfortable working in an action-oriented, start-up environment
    • Self-motivated by problem-solving and inherent curiosity to understand how things work

Commitment To Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, And Belonging:

    • Nature’s Fynd views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values

EEO Statement:

    • We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law

Location:

    • This position is located in our lab space at 2250 W Campbell Park Dr. Chicago, IL.