Protein Production and Purification - Fermentation Scientist

Company Description

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Are you interested in joining some of the brightest talent in the world to strengthen the United States’ security? Come join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for BIG ideas that make our world a better place.

We are dedicated to fostering a culture that values individuals, talents, partnerships, ideas, experiences, and different perspectives, recognizing their importance to the continued success of the Laboratory’s mission.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated Fermentation Scientist to support an interdisciplinary project focused on developing protein-based methods for rare earth separation. You will play a key role in advancing scalable fermentation processes for microbial protein expression and in developing cost-effective downstream protein purification methods. This position requires strong experimental skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers. This position is in the Syntethic Biology Group in the Biosciences and Biotechnology Division with the Physical and Life Sciences Directorate.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

You will

• Operate and maintain laboratory-scale bioreactors for microbial protein expression.
• Develop, optimize, and execute fermentation processes at both bench and pilot-scale.
• Design and refine downstream protein purification methods (e.g., chromatography, filtration, protein immobilization).
• Apply data-driven approaches to improve yield, productivity, and reproducibility.
• Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records; contribute to data analysis and communicate results to project teams.
• Support laboratory operations including equipment maintenance, media preparation, and safety compliance.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to troubleshoot workflows and support scale-up efforts.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). See Additional Information section below for details.
• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Proficient experience with microbial fermentation in bioreactors at the bench or pilot scale.
• Comprehensive experience with protein purification and downstream process development.
• Proficient in sterile techniques and basic microbiology procedures.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience with large-scale bioreactors (≥50L) and process scale-up.
• Experience with bioprocess automation, data collection, and control software.
• Experience with chromatography system (e.g., ÄKTA or similar platforms).
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, expression construct design).

Additional Information

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

This is a Flexible Term appointment, which is for a definite period not to exceed six years. If final candidate is a Career Indefinite employee, Career Indefinite status may be maintained (should funding allow).

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2025 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Our values - visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values

Security Clearance

None required. However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process. This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check. (This process does not apply to foreign nationals.)

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities. The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position. To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession. This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.

If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

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