Position Announcements
Research Scientist - Microbial & System Ecology for Algal Biofuel
Research Scientist – Systems Ecology (Ph.D.)
Algenol is seeking to fill a non-temporary Research Scientist
position in Systems Ecology located at its Fort Myers, Florida,
R&D facility. Algenol is a global, industrial biotechnology
company that is commercializing its patented algae
technology platform for production of ethanol and green
chemicals. Our patented DIRECT TO ETHANOL® technology
enables the production of ethanol for less than $1.00 per
gallon using sunlight, carbon dioxide and saltwater, and
targets commercial production of 6,000 gallons of ethanol per
acre per year. The low production costs and high yields are
achievable because DIRECT TO ETHANOL® does not involve
killing or harvesting algae and relies on our patented
photobioreactors and proprietary downstream techniques for
the low-cost recovery and purification of ethanol. These novel,
low-cost techniques have the added benefits of consuming
carbon dioxide from industrial sources, not using farmland or
food crops.
Responsibilities Include:
1. Independently conduct priority research studies
including: design of experiments, experiment execution, data
analysis, and final reporting
2. Help guide a team of Lab Technicians and Research
Associates
3. Coordinate experimental design and implementation
with multiple departments and personnel
4. Synthesize knowledge from various science and
engineering workgroups
5. Assume primary authorship of standard operating
procedures and technical reports
6. Present scientific results and lead discussions in
company conferences
7. Ensure timely completion of priority Company projects
Required Skills:
1. Solid understanding of microbial ecology and
interactions between algae, cyanobacteria, bacteria, and
aquatic environments
2. Strong background in aquatic microbiology, including
the culture of prokaryotic and/or eukaryotic microbes,
microbial physiology, and microbial taxonomy
3. Basic understanding of biochemical principles related to
microbial physiology and growth under batch and continuous
culture
4. Experience in quantification and identification of aquatic
microbes, such as microscopy techniques, flow cytometry,
PCR/sequencing.
5. Persistent positive, can-do attitude in a fast-paced and
demanding work environment
6. Able to work flexible hours including late nights,
weekends and holidays, as research demands require
7. Able to work outdoors in a hot and humid climate
8. Must possess excellent interpersonal and communication
skills, be fluent in spoken and written English, and be eligible
to work in the United States
Preferred Skills:
1. Background in microbial ecology, synthetic ecology, or
biological engineering
2. Experience with molecular techniques such as: nucleic
acid extraction from environmental samples, PCR, qPCR,
DGGE, cloning, and sequencing
3. Knowledge or experience with the analysis of metabolites
using chromatography, electrophoresis, spectroscopy or mass
spectrometry
4. Statistical experimental design
5. Direct experience working with bioreactors or synthetic
microbial systems
Qualifications:
The candidate has a Ph.D. in Microbiology,
Environmental/Biological Engineering, Biology, Ecology,
Marine/Aquatic Sciences, Limnology, or similar discipline.
Candidate should have a minimum of 3 years experimental
laboratory and/or field experience dealing primarily with
microorganisms or microbial systems. Data analysis and
scientific report writing, demonstrated by a publication or
patent record, is also required. Exceptional candidates with a
M.Sc. degree in a relevant discipline and extended
professional experience directly related to the job
requirements might be considered for this position.
Candidate must be eligible to work in the United States and
available to start the position immediately. Screening of
applications will commence immediately until position is
filled. Algenol Biofuels is an equal opportunity employer.
Application:
Candidates submit, in electronic form (MS Word, PDF): a cover
letter; a complete CV with publication list; names, affiliation,
nature of relationship, and email of three (3) professional
references. Only complete applications will be reviewed and
answered. All submissions should be sent to
jobs@algenol.com and reference the career code of RSSE-01
in the subject line.
*Only complete applications will be reviewed and answered.*