Position Announcements
Research Associate (M.Sc.) in Algal Mass Culture and Ecophysiology
Research Associate (M.Sc.) in Algal Mass Culture and Ecophysiology
Algenol Biofuels, Inc., a privately owned company, is engaged in broad research and development efforts to develop industrial-scale production systems for ethanol from algae using a second-generation advanced process to convert sunlight, CO2, and water directly into ethanol on an industrial scale and at a competitive cost to all existing ethanol production technologies. The DIRECT TO ETHANOL™ technology uses proprietary algae and collection methods and consumes large quantities of carbon dioxide during the process.
For the Algenol Aquaculture and Research Facility in West Palm Beach, Florida, we are seeking to fill one full-time Research Associate (M.Sc.) position.
The major task for this position is performing research towards the optimization of algal and cyanobacterial growth in outdoor photobioreactor systems for alternative fuel production, co-products, and by-products under the guidance of the Research Facility’s Director. Research tasks include indoor and outdoor tank studies to evaluate growth dynamics and physiology of algal and cyanobacterial strains in relation to mechanical and hydrodynamical concepts of bioreactor and tank design and assessing process optimization for culture growth and ethanol production. The Research Associate is also expected to work closely with technical personnel and to participate directly in bioreactor and experiment setups, designing and conducting sound scientific experimental protocols, performing in-lab analyses, providing sound data assessment and result reports, and in the general maintenance of the Facility and its equipment.
Candidates should have completed a M.Sc. in Biology, Biological Oceanography, Limnology, or comparable discipline and demonstrate extensive field and lab work experience with algae and/or cyanobacteria. Profound knowledge in algal/cyanobacteria ecology and physiology is required. Ideally, the candidate has experience in applying molecular tools (PCR, gene expression, genetic fingerprinting) to ecological questions (molecular ecology). However, this is not a position for molecular biologists without training and research experience in field ecology. Experience with algal mass culture systems and/or culture process control will also be beneficial. The candidate is highly self-motivated and self-reliant but integrates well with a small, closely collaborating team of young and enthusiastic colleagues. Ability to work with heavy loads and outdoors in a hot climate will be required. Candidates must be fluent in spoken and written English. Non-US citizens need to be in possession of a valid work permit or legal residency at the time of application.
Algenol Biofuels, Inc. offers a generous salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, comprehensive health insurance plans, 401k plans, and annual vacation time. Algenol Biofuels, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants shall send their cover letter, curriculum vitae, and names, address, and email of three references to: Dr. Frank J. Jochem, Director Florida Aquaculture and Research Station, Algenol Biofuels, Inc., frank.jochem@algenolbiofuels.com. Review of applications will begin July 1, 2009, until the position is filled. We are aiming at filling this position as soon as possible. Only applications meeting outlined qualifications, providing all requested documents, and indicating candidates’ availability for job filling will be considered and answered.