Principal Scientist, Applied Environmental Microbiology

Position summary

Fieldstone Bio is looking for a highly motivated Applied Environmental Microbiologist to join our growing team, where they will test the diverse functions of our engineered microbial-based biosensors.

The successful candidate will independently contribute to the development and implementation of different assays intended to discern functional output of a variety of engineered model and non-model microorganisms in application-relevant environments. This is a hands-on, lab-based role that will lead from the bench and will work collaboratively with the company's Synthetic Biology team and AI Data team.

This role provides a unique opportunity to impact the development of research strategies at an early-stage biotechnology company.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and execute cell-based assays to screen for the function of engineered microbial strains
• Lead development and innovation of novel strategies driving successful application of engineered microorganisms in unique, non-traditional environments
• Drive decision-making experiments regarding microbial chassis deployment in application-relevant environments
• Collaborate with Synthetic Biology Team to assess lead engineered candidates in application-relevant conditions
• Provide mentorship to junior members of the microbiology team while leading from the bench
• Ensure timely delivery of goals for set milestones
• Document processes, results, and entity registration in an Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) system

Qualifications

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Microbiology, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, or a related field with 5+ years of relevant industry experience
• Extensive experience with evaluation of performance of engineered microorganisms in application-relevant environments
• Prior hands-on experience working with engineered microorganisms is required, with non-model, soil-associated, or mining-associated microbe experience preferred
• Experience with novel methods of microbial characterization in application-relevant environments
• Assay development for microorganisms in non-model environments
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and outside-of-the-box thinking
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Prior mentoring or management experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Versatile and flexible scientist who thrives in a fast-paced and collaborative lab environment