This full-time, permanent position is ideal for a candidate with a strong background in biotechnology, molecular biology, or process engineering, who is skilled in both upstream (strain development, bioprocess development) and downstream processing. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate creativity, a passion for product discovery, and a keen interest in technological scouting to drive innovation in our processes and products.

We Offer

• An exciting, versatile position at a leading company in a secure and innovative industry.

• Gross entry-level monthly salary starting from €4,000, with willingness to pay more depending on qualifications.

• Ongoing professional development opportunities, with individually tailored training plans.

• Additional social benefits such as furnished company housing (if required), meal subsidies, life insurance, voluntary travel allowance, and more.

• Opportunities to lead or contribute to creative innovation projects and product discovery workshops.

• Access to resources and networks for continuous technological scouting and professional growth in innovation management.

• Workplace located at Plant Pernhofen, 2064 Wulzeshofen, near Laa an der Thaya.

Responsibilities

• Drive creative problem-solving and foster a culture of innovation within the R&D team, encouraging novel approaches to bioprocess challenges.

• Lead or participate in product discovery initiatives, identifying unmet needs and translating scientific insights into new product concepts and prototypes.

• Develop and optimize innovative bioprocesses, incorporating experimental design and parametric studies to improve process performance.

• Structure and manage research projects, from laboratory scale to pilot scale.

• Analyze complex datasets using advanced statistical tools and modeling software to support decision-making and process optimization.

• Support operation teams in cost optimisation projects.

• Conduct technological scouting to identify, evaluate, and implement emerging technologies, tools, and methodologies relevant to bioprocessing and downstream processing.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to assess the feasibility and potential impact of new technologies and product ideas, supporting the transition from concept to development.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Bioprocess Engineering, or a related field.

• At least 5 years of experience in an industrial R&D environment, ideally with hands-on expertise in downstream processing, fermentation, enzymatic conversion and/or strain development.

• Demonstrated ability to think creatively and generate innovative solutions in a scientific or engineering context.

• Proven track record in technological scouting, technology assessment, or horizon scanning within the biotechnology or bioprocess engineering sectors.

• Experience with product discovery processes, including ideation, validation, and early-stage development, is highly desirable.

• Proficiency in statistical analysis, modelling tools (such as DOE, predictive modelling), and molecular biology/extraction techniques.

• Very good command of German and English is required.

• Leadership potential and interest in team management within 2–3 years.