Upstream Section Leader

Posted September 3, 2010 12:00 AM    

Department: Scientific Operations

Location: San Diego, California

Sapphire Energy is a venture capital backed company developing next generation biofuels based on recent advances in metabolic engineering. The company’s focus is the commercialization of high performance, low cost, and low carbon footprint biofuels that are direct replacements for conventional gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.

We are seeking a Section Leader to join our Upstream Research staff in San Diego, California.

Requirements:

• An advanced degree in biological sciences or related field, a minimum of 5 years post-graduate laboratory experience; industry experience required.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, troubleshoot and interpret experiments.
• Broad and deep understanding of molecular biology techniques as applied to both eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms.
• Significant experience in design and implementation of novel expression systems.
• Strong management and leadership skills; comfort with leadership & accountability.
• Creativity and the ability to lead and/or work within an interdisciplinary team to in order to achieve technical and corporate milestones.
• Exceptional critical thinking and problem solving skills.
• Due to the highly collaborative nature of this position, interpersonal and communications skills will be extremely important.
• Proficiency in writing and oral presentations.
• Must be able to lead and aggressively drive scientific achievements in a fast-paced, highly dynamic environment.

The Upstream Section Leader reports to the Vice President of Technology.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Outline, design and lead a scientific program that will:

Develop and improve transformation and expression platforms for novel microorganism

Modify microbial metabolism

• Provide an example of and training in scientific excellence for the laboratory staff.
• Make and record detailed observations, analyze data, and interpret results.
• Detailing scientific programming with direct reports, including meeting schedules, tracking weekly action items and other project management tools.
• Preparing and updating project plans, maintenance or modification of project plan documentation and the preparation/distribution of project status reports, including quarterly goals, deliverables, milestones, and required tasks.
• Preparing briefs and presentations.
• Work with the Operations Manager to coordinate operational and support services for direct reports and group projects, including ensuring training for scientific staff and providing technical input to purchasing and other functional areas as required.
• Working with the legal department to write patents and to ensure document management and application deadlines.
• Recruit, screen and train new scientists and research associates as staffing requirements necessitate.
• Provide example of professionalism and proficiency for the laboratory staff.
• Other tasks/duties as assigned.

Sapphire offers very competitive compensation packages including bonuses and equity, as well as full benefit packages which include health, dental, vision insurance, 401k, and paid time off. To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to human.resources@sapphireenergy.com with “Section Leader” in the subject line.