Senior Research Associate, Strain Evaluation

Posted May 2, 2010 12:00 AM    

Location: San Diego, CA

Department: Development

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 motivated algae physiologist to join the Strain Evaluation team.

Responsibilities:

• Evaluate and characterize algae strains in the lab using various autotrophic growth systems. Daily duties will involve characterization of new strains including growth in different media, varying pH values, temperature, and salinity.
• Develop working expertise with various growth systems and reactors use for algal growth.
• Grow, maintain, and QC fresh algal cultures for experiments in liquid culture and on plates.
• Understand, organize, and summarize data for group analysis.
• Fulfill certain weekend duties.

Qualifications:

• M.S. with 2-5 years of relevant work experience, or B.A. with 5-8 years relevant work experience with advancement, is required.
• Proficiency with sterile technique and microbiological culture is required.
• Proficiency with light microscopy is required; experience with fluorescence microscopy is preferred.
• Proficiency in Excel environment is required, and experience with a LIMS or programming proficiency (VBA, etc.) is preferred.
• Prior knowledge and experience in algal physiology, photosynthesis, plant nutrition, and plant protection is preferred.
• Must be detail oriented, organized, and familiar with keeping a scientific lab notebook.
• Must be able to remain focused under pressure, prioritize daily duties, and be clear and concise when organizing and presenting data.

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 and reference SRA, Strain Evaluation in the subject line.