Job Title: Head of Protein Production- Engineering Biology and Fermentation
(Job ID: PFX_PP_05)
Location: Porto (Portugal) or Ghent (Belgium)
Company: PFx Biotech
About Us
At PFx Biotech, we are driving the next frontier in advanced nutrition by harnessing the power of biology and using precision fermentation to develop and launch bioactive specialty proteins for healthier lives and a better planet. Our pioneering products are set to transform how people think about nutrition, combining scientific insights with market-driven strategies. As we gear up for our next phase of growth, we’re looking for a highly skilled and visionary Head of Protein Production to join us and lead our efforts in developing and scaling up the company’s protein portfolio.
The Role
As the Head of Protein Production, you will play a central role in driving the development and scaling of bioactive specialty proteins from the R&D phase through to full-scale commercialization. Working closely with the CEO, COO, and other leaders across the company, you will be responsible for creating a world-class team of engineering biology and fermentation experts. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a company that’s disrupting the nutrition industry. Your goal is to ensure that PFx Biotech remains at the forefront of technological innovation, achieving regulatory approvals and seamless tech transfer to commercial manufacturing. You will be instrumental in developing PFx Biotech’s protein ingredients from protein identification through to full scale production.
Key Responsibilities:
Protein Development & Scale-up: Collaborate with the CEO and COO to lead the development and scale-up of bioactive specialty proteins. Manage the transition of proteins from R&D through to commercialization, ensuring that all processes are cost-effective, efficient, and aligned with the company’s growth objectives.
Engineering biology leadership: Develop unique and competitive engineering biology strategies and execute them to ensure PFx Biotech’s strains maintain cost-competitive uniqueness in producing bioactive specialty proteins.
Team Building & Leadership: Build and lead a high-performing team of synthetic biologists, fermentation scientists, and technicians. Foster a collaborative and innovative culture, driving the continuous improvement of processes and technologies.
Collaboration with Bioactivity & Nutrition Team: Work closely with the Head of Bioactivity and Nutrition to ensure that the proteins produced meet the highest standards of bioactivity and nutritional value, aligning with the company’s mission to promote healthier lives.
Regulatory Approvals & External Partnerships: Liaise with the Head of Bioactivity and Nutrition and with external stakeholders and regulatory bodies to secure necessary approvals for PFx Biotech’s proteins. Ensure that all products comply with regional and international regulations, facilitating smooth market entry.
Technological Innovation: Stay ahead of technological advancements in bioprocess engineering, strain developments, and engineering biology. Lead initiatives to create competitive advantages through innovative technological solutions, ensuring PFx Biotech’s proteins stand out in the market.
Tech Transfer to Manufacturing: Oversee the seamless transfer of technology from R&D to commercial manufacturing sites. Ensure that scale-up processes are efficient and maintain the integrity and quality of the proteins produced.
Grant Applications & R&D Funding: Identify and apply for competitive R&D grants at both national and regional levels. Drive the company's efforts to secure funding that supports innovation and expansion in protein production.
Intellectual Property (IP) Management: Identify key IP assets and work to protect them. Ensure that PFx Biotech’s technological advancements are safeguarded and contribute to the company’s unique market positioning.
Collaborate with Business Development: Align with the VP of Business Development to create compelling value propositions for customers. Develop unique technological selling points that differentiate PFx Biotech’s bioactive proteins in the marketplace.
Cross-Departmental Leadership: Work closely with the management team and other departments to ensure that protein production aligns with broader company strategies. Drive collaboration to ensure cost-effective and scalable solutions across the board.
Qualifications
PhD or equivalent experience in Bioprocess Engineering, Synthetic Biology, Fermentation Science, or a related field.
Proven experience leading teams in the development and scale-up of proteins, ideally within the precision fermentation or biotech space.
Solid skills in fermentation processes and downstream processing, chassis strain engineering, and bioprocess optimization.
Extensive experience working on tech transfer from lab-scale to pilot and commercial manufacturing.
Demonstrated experience in securing regulatory approvals and working with external stakeholders to ensure compliance.
Knowledge of IP management and experience in identifying and protecting key technological assets.
Strong leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and guide a multidisciplinary team.
Experience in securing R&D grants and managing projects funded by external bodies.
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a focus on innovation and technological advancement.
Why Join PFx?
Be at the forefront of innovation in sustainable nutrition and play a critical role in the scale-up of bioactive specialty proteins.
Be part of a pioneering startup set to revolutionize the advanced nutrition industry with sustainable bioactive protein ingredients.
Work in a dynamic and flexible startup environment with the opportunity to shape the future of advanced nutrition.
Collaborate with a passionate and innovative team dedicated to making positive changes for people and the planet.
Enjoy a competitive salary, an attractive bonus package tied to performance, and participation in our ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan).
Have a direct impact on shaping the future of PFx Biotech and launching transformative products that impact the life of millions positively.
How to Apply
Are you excited by the opportunity to transform the future of nutrition and sustainability through advanced protein solutions?
We want to hear from you! Please submit your CV and cover letter to info@pfxbiotech.com, stating the Job ID you are applying for (PFX_PP_05)
Join us in shaping healthier lives and a better planet through innovation!