Scientist Synthetic Biology

Job Description

We are looking for an expert in the field of Synthetic Biology to join our Research & Development team in Leiden.

IFF’s Health & Biosciences division is a global leader in biotechnology. The IFF laboratories in Leiden have a long and dynamic history that goes back to the beginnings of modern biotechnology, to become the world market leader in sustainable bio-solutions.

The R&D team in Leiden includes more than 30 creative, multi-disciplinary scientists representing 13 different nationalities. We design and operate microbial production platforms (bacteria, yeast and filamentous fungi) and engineer enzymes that are used in food & beverages, biofuels, home & personal care, animal nutrition, and more. We have a strong focus on providing sustainable solutions at industrial scale: we apply science & creativity for a better world.

For the advertised position, we are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated researcher in the field of Synthetic Biology to join our Fungal Genetics team focusing on strain development and protein engineering. The successful candidate has extensive hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of synthetic biology. Experience in microbial genetics, protein expression and affinity with laboratory robotics and programming is a plus.  Passion for science and technology as well as capability of working in team environment are key requirements.

Key responsibilities:

• Maintain the most up-to-date scientific overview of the Synthetic Biology.
• Identify, develop and implement novel molecular biology tools and technologies in the field.
• Develop flow cytometry and “-omics” tools for strain improvement and bottlenecks identification.
• Deliver through technical contribution to project related design-build-test-learn cycles, such as strain engineering, gene library construction and high-throughput cloning campaigns.
• Prepare and present technical reports, data summaries, protocols and other technical and regulatory documentations.
• Participate in developing the intellectual property strategy and drafting patent applications in collaboration with peers and the legal team.
• In this position >50% of the time is expected to be dedicated to lab work.
• Due to the global presence of IFF, this position offers a possibility of traveling and may require participating in (online) meetings after standard working hours.

Job Requirements

• Ph.D. in Synthetic Biology or adjacent field (Biological Engineering, Molecular Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology).
• Publications and proven track record of research as a Synthetic Biologist.
• Familiarity/experience with Synthetic Biology projects and research tools.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design and pursue novel research.
• Additional experience in industry or relevant academia experience is a plus.
• Problem solving mindset, looking for practical solutions.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Affinity for automation and programming is welcome.
• Hands-on mentality and strong lab work skills.
• Good record-keeping organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Goal oriented, can-do attitude.
• Good communication, presentation and networking skills.
• Fluency in spoken and written English is expected.

We offer:

• Position in a dynamic team of inspired, innovative and highly skilled scientists.
• An energetic work environment created by inclusive and multicultural team.
• The opportunity to grow professionally and to develop a career in Industrial Biotechnology.
• Competitive salary and attractive compensation and benefits, such as:

Individual Choice Budget of 8% of the annual base salary, employee choice to be paid in monthly instalments or to exchange for additional time off up to 15 extra days per year.

25 vacation days and 3 bridge days, of which 2 of them are determined by the employer.

Annual Incentive Plan.

At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential.  We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace. Visit IFF.com/careers to learn more about our Equality Policy.