Research Associate - Bioprocess

Helaina is a VC-backed biotech startup creating a new category of functional food products. We're the first company to put human proteins into food, starting with making the most human-like infant formula in order to empower and equip parents with more choice in their infant’s nutrition.

Helaina’s R&D harnesses the power of naturally occurring biological processes in tandem with modern advances in the space of synthetic biology, fermentation, and improved industrial processing. We developed a novel precision fermentation platform to unlock a suite of functional proteins, which allows us to create infant formula with health benefits previously only available through breast milk.

Helaina is backed by top VCs in the industry including Spark Capital, Siam Capital, Primary Venture Partners, and Plum Alley. We are a team of change-makers looking for our next team member who is intensely passionate about advancing synthetic biology for food and beverage products and redefining the future of nutrition. 

In this role, you will work in our NYC lab to support experiments performed by the Bioprocess team. The successful candidate will be a hands-on, motivated self-starter with a strong sense of initiative. You will be responsible for supporting fermentation experiments in bioreactors as the company's team and equipment availability grows.
What You’ll Do

• Support the Upstream Bioprocess team with the experimental design, setup and execution of fermentations for process development
• Hands-on operation and monitoring of bioreactor and small-scale experiments, including, but not limited to, setup, sterilization, process parameter monitoring, feed control, and cleanup
• Carry out fermentation sampling and monitoring, with the ability to troubleshoot equipment as necessary
• Perform aseptic cell culture techniques for small-scale cell culture work under BSL2 conditions or Bunsen burner
• Perform routine analytical work (i.e. SDS-PAGE, Western Blots, etc.)
• Maintain lab: prepare media, maintain equipment, upkeep of consumables, glassware sterilization required for execution of experiments

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering or equivalent with 1-3 years of industry and/or academic experience
• Hands-on lab experience with upstream process development and bioreactor operation
• Experience with aseptic techniques for maintenance of microbial cell culture
• Good laboratory practices including organized data documentation and presentation, attention to detail, and ability to follow protocols
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment to deliver high-quality, consistent data in a timely manner
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with high attention to detail
• Ability to support experiments after hours and on weekends (when required)
• Brings an enthusiastic and curious attitude to work every day
• Energetic, creative, and personally motivated by the future of food and/or biological products

Bonus Points

• Prior startup experience

The Logistics

• Terms of employment: Full-time, non-exempt
• Location: New York, NY; United States 
• Benefits: Full medical coverage, optional dental and vision packages, a 401(k) plan, unlimited vacation, the opportunity for advancement, respectful managers, and supportive colleagues
• This is a U.S.-based position: In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Helaina is an Equal Opportunity Employer 
For more information, please contact careers@myhelaina.com