Bioreactor Hardware Engineer

Animal Alternative Technologies (AAT) is a recently founded biotechnology B2B startup from the University of Cambridge. We are engineering a scalable, end-to-end ecosystem for Cultured Meat production, including specialist processes, enabling technologies, software, hardware and raw materials to democratize access to sustainable food and tackle some of the world's biggest sustainability and food security challenges.

Tasks

We are a rapidly growing cultured meat start-up looking for a Bioreactor Hardware Engineer with experience in the hands-on fabrication and building of fully functional bioreactors for cells to join our core team! You will be flexible and able to handle rapidly changing priorities on a range of cross-functional projects. You are an independent problem solver who enjoys working in fast-paced environments. As a senior scientist and early team member, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our technology and the company's direction.

Responsibilities:

• Designing, fabricating, assembling, and possibly validating fully-functional bioreactors for cells. This includes the actual vessel as well as sensors and control systems.
• Planning, efficient execution, comprehensive analysis and presentation of bioreactor experiments.
• Coordination of engineering projects.

Requirements

Essential

• Minimum Bachelor s degree in a relevant subject such as Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, or Bioengineering.
• PhD or at least 3 years of relevant work experience beyond Bachelor s/Master s
• Hands-on experience in designing, fabricating/building, and assembling fully functional bioreactors for cells. This work needs to have been done independently (with minimal reliance on a workshop or other such entity). This may involve the use of techniques such as 3D printing, milling, laser cutting, metal-works, etc.
• Integration of a temperature control system into the bioreactor (heating/cooling jacket), including all the necessary heat/mass transport calculation, as well as other standard bioreactor control loops for pH, Dissolved Oxygen, etc. This includes fitting the bioreactor with all the relevant sensors and actuators, PID, and the programming of any systems needed (eg. Arduinos).

Desirable (two or more of the following)

• Cell culture, ideally adherent mammalian cells
• Operation and validation of bioreactors for cells
• CIP and SIP system development
• Fabrication techniques such as prototyping, 3D CAD, 3D printing, metal works (eg. soldering), etc.
• Computational modelling of fluid dynamics, cell growth and other phenomena within bioreactors. Experience in process intensification is advantageous.
• Scale-up of bioreactors
• Sourcing and procurement of materials and equipment for bioreactors.
• PhD in a relevant subject.
• Senior applicants with over 5-10 years of experience are welcome and will have the opportunity to lead a small team.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and stock options
• 30 days holiday and pension plan
• Potential for excellent career progression as part a multi-disciplinary team, all leaders in their fields.
• Contribute to the development of cultured meat using cutting-edge technologies to help tackle sustainability and food security challenges.
• Work in facilities at the world-renowned, historical University of Cambridge which has produced the most Nobel Laureates.
• We are backed by the Cambridge Judge Business School and the world's leading food-tech VCs.

AAT is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
We are committed to creating inclusive teams and providing a work environment that allows all to be themselves.

Please attach your CV and a cover letter.We look forward to hearing from you!