molecular biology jobs in Vancouver, BC

Company Introduction:

Founded in 2004, SignalChem Biotech is a world’s leader in the research, development, and manufacturing of active kinases and disease-relevant kinase mutants. With expertise in cellular signaling, molecular biology, and biochemistry, SignalChem has developed over 4,000 functional recombinant protein products, establishing itself as a key player in the global market for active recombinant signaling enzymes. Recently acquired by Sino Biological, a world-renowned reagent supplier and contract research organization listed on ChiNext of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (301047 Sino Biological Inc.). SignalChem is now expanding its capabilities and creating multiple new positions.

Job Description:

SignalChem Biotech Inc. is seeking an experienced, industry-focused Research Scientist specializing in upstream microbial bioprocessing. This role will lead the optimization, scale-up, and execution of bacterial and yeast fermentation platforms to support recombinant protein production. The ideal candidate brings proven industrial experience in bench-to-pilot scale bioreactor operations, medium optimization, and process development, combined with strong molecular biology and protein purification fundamentals to drive new and existing product pipelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Upstream Bioprocess Development: Design, optimize, and execute high-density microbial fermentation workflows (batch, fed-batch, and continuous) using E. coli and yeast (Pichia pastoris, Saccharomyces cerevisiae) expression systems.
• Bioreactor Operation & Scale-Up: Set up, calibrate, operate, and troubleshoot bench-and pilot-scale bioreactors/fermenters (1 L to 10 L+), optimizing critical process parameters (DO, pH, feed rates, agitation, temperature, and induction kinetics).
• Process Optimization & Tech Transfer: Refine fermentation medium recipes, feed strategies, and growth parameters to maximize volumetric yield and protein quality; support downstream purification teams and tech transfer into manufacturing.
• Experimental Rigor & Data Analysis: Monitor in-process metrics (OD600, wet/dry cell weight, metabolite profiles), perform rigorous statistical analysis, and author detailed technical reports, SOPs, and batch records.
• Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement: Proactively identify upstream bottlenecks, investigate yield variations or contamination risks, and implement robust corrective actions.

Required Qualifications

• Education & Experience: Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related field with 2+ years of direct industrial/biotech experience; OR an M.Sc. with 5+ years of relevant industry experience in microbial fermentation and bioprocess development.
• Microbial Fermentation Expertise: Hands-on proficiency in operating automated bench-scale fermenters/bioreactors for both bacterial (E. coli) and yeast expression platforms.
• Communication & Execution: Demonstrated ability to drive projects independently in a fast-paced commercial environment, with robust documentation habits and cross-functional team skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Industrial Scale-Up: Demonstrated experience scaling microbial processes from shake flasks to pilot-scale vessels.
• Downstream Integration: Hands-on experience with primary recovery, chromatography (affinity, IEX, SEC), and automated purification systems (e.g., ÄKTA).

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Dental care
• Extended health care
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• Vision care

Application question(s):

• Do you have experience in recombinant protein production and downstream purification (ÄKTA, affinity, IEX, or SEC)?
• Do you have hands-on industrial experience in microbial fermentation and upstream bioprocess development?
• Do you have a Ph.D. with 2+ years of relevant industry experience OR an M.Sc. with 5+ years of relevant industry experience?

Education:

• Master's Degree (required)

Work Location: In person