2 Vacancies

Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic individual to join our team as a Bioplastic Research Scientist, playing a pivotal role in our quest for sustainable solutions to combat plastic pollution. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead groundbreaking research initiatives focused on optimizing the production of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) from microbial sources.

As a Bioplastic Research Scientist, you will be at the forefront of innovation, driving efforts to explore the potential of PHB as a viable alternative to conventional plastics. Your primary responsibility will be to delve into the intricacies of microbial fermentation, working to optimize culture media and enhance PHB production from bacterial isolates.

Characterization of PHB will be a key aspect of your role, where you will unravel its mechanical, chemical, and immunological properties. By understanding the unique attributes of microbial-produced PHB, you will pave the way for its diverse applications across industries.

Collaboration lies at the heart of our research ethos, and as a Bioplastic Research Scientist, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with experts from various disciplines. Through interdisciplinary partnerships, you will foster a dynamic research environment conducive to innovation and discovery.

Innovation is central to our mission, and you will be tasked with developing novel methods for the synthesis and processing of PHB-based materials. From exploring advanced techniques like electro-spinning to pioneering new approaches in biopolymer blending, you will push the boundaries of bioplastic research.

Sustainability is at the core of everything we do, and you will play a critical role in evaluating the biodegradability of PHB-based materials. Through rigorous experimentation in diverse environmental conditions, you will provide valuable insights into the eco-friendliness of PHB, shaping its real-world impact.

As a Bioplastic Research Scientist, you will be a custodian of knowledge, actively contributing to the scientific community through publications and presentations. Your insights will fuel the global dialogue on environmental sustainability and bioplastics innovation.

In addition to your scientific endeavors, you will be responsible for laboratory management, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and meticulous documentation of research activities. By maintaining a safe and efficient laboratory environment, you will enable seamless research operations and facilitate collaborative endeavors.

This position presents a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the fight against plastic pollution. If you are passionate about sustainability and possess the drive to pioneer change, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey towards a more sustainable future.

 

Preferred Intern Education Level

Qualifications (Job 1):

1. Ph.D. or equivalent experience in materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field with a focus on hydrogel research.
2. Proven track record of research excellence demonstrated by publications in reputable scientific journals and presentations at conferences.3.
3. Expertise in hydrogel synthesis, characterization techniques, and polymer chemistry, with a strong understanding of structure-property relationships.
4. Experience working with biopolymers derived from renewable sources, particularly plants, and a commitment to sustainable materials development.
5. Proficiency in laboratory techniques, including spectroscopy, microscopy, rheology, and thermal analysis, for hydrogel characterization and performance evaluation.
6. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to design and execute experiments independently and as part of a collaborative team.
7. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
8. Join us in the pursuit of innovative solutions using biopolymers-based hydrogels to address agricultural and environmental challenges and make a meaningful impact on society.Education: Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Material Science, or a related field.

 

Qualifications (Job 2):

1. Experience: Proven experience in microbial fermentation techniques and biopolymer production, preferably with a focus on polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB).
2. Analytical Skills: Proficiency in characterizing polymer properties using analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and microscopy.
3. Hands-on Experience: Experience with polymer processing methods, including electro-spinning and film formation, is highly desirable.
4. Problem-solving Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to design and execute complex experiments independently.
5. Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of publishing research in peer-reviewed journals.
6. Collaborative Spirit: Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment and contribute to cross-functional projects.

Skill sets or Qualities

Key Responsibilities(Job 1):

1. Conduct in-depth research on biopolymers-based hydrogels, exploring their synthesis, characterization, and applications in various fields, including biomedicine and agriculture.
2. Investigate the influence of hydrophilic functional groups on the water retention capacity and mechanical properties of hydrogels, with a focus on customization and responsiveness to environmental stimuli.
3. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop innovative hydrogel formulations with tailored thermal, mechanical, and biocompatible properties for diverse applications.
4. Evaluate the environmental impact and biodegradability of synthetic polymer-based hydrogels versus biopolymer alternatives, emphasizing sustainability and eco-friendliness.
5. Explore the potential of biopolymers-based hydrogels in enhancing soil health, nutrient delivery, and controlled fertilizer release systems to optimize crop productivity in agricultural contexts.
6. Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at conferences to contribute to the scientific community and stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.
7. Stay informed about emerging technologies and methodologies in hydrogel research, incorporating novel approaches to address agricultural and environmental challenges.
   Job Description: Bioplastic Research Scientist

Key Responsibilities(Job 2):

1. Optimization of Culture Media: Conduct research to optimize culture media for enhancing PHB production from bacterial isolates.
2. Characterization of PHB: Analyze the mechanical, chemical, and immunological properties of microbial-produced PHB to understand its suitability for different applications.
3. Collaborative Research: Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop innovative methods for the synthesis and processing of PHB-based materials.
4. PHB Blending: Prepare PHB blended with starch biofilms using advanced techniques such as electro-spinning.
5. Biodegradability Testing: Evaluate the biodegradability of PHB-based materials in various environments, including soils, freshwater, and composting conditions.
6. Stay Informed: Stay updated on recent advancements in bioplastic research and contribute to the scientific community through publications and presentations.
7. Lab Management: Maintain laboratory equipment, ensure compliance with safety protocols, and manage research documentation effectively.