Environmental microbiologist

The Company

Metalx Bio uses synthetic biology to create a biomining platform that empowers the world's transition away from fossil fuels. Our carbon-free approach to critical metal reclamation and refining is an alternative to energy-intensive metal mining and refining. Our sustainable vision and elegant approach have attracted clients and investors who share our passion for a net-zero, circular supply chain for critical metals that will fuel our carbon-free future.

The Opportunity

As a Research Scientist focused on end to end biomining, you will be part of our company's startup team, and responsible for culturing extremophiles and other exotic and novel microorganisms used in biomining. The role involves optimization of batch culture conditions and characterization of byproducts of interest. This position will expose you to a multidisciplinary group of scientists who are working together in the development of green and sustainable novel technologies that have a profound impact on decreasing global carbon emissions. Scientists with a multidisciplinary background rooted in microbiology, geomicrobiology, synthetic biology, and biochemistry will thrive within our team and will have multiple opportunities for growth.

Responsibilities

* Lead the culturing, isolation, and maintaining of extremophiles
* Genetic engineering, vector design
* Metal analysis with ICP-OES
* Design and execute the approach for optimizing nutrient and feedstock ratios
* Perform and troubleshoot DNA and RNA extraction and quantification on environmental samples
* Identify and characterize microorganisms through molecular methods
* Analyze and interpret data and prepare updates and reports
* Train new hires on safety practices, protocols and data management, and operation of analytical equipment
* Maintain meticulous digital records of all work completed and deviations from relevant protocols
* Assist junior team members with troubleshooting and problem solving of technical issues
* Perform QA/QC on routine and new protocols

Requirements

* PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Geomicrobiology, or related field
* MS acceptable with industry or research experience
* 1-3 years of post doc or industry experience preferred; recent PhD or MS graduates with exceptionally relevant experience will also be considered
* Demonstrated strong experience with microbiology techniques
* In depth knowledge of geomicrobiology and near surface geochemistry
* Experience with complex media culture for isolation and enrichment of microorganisms
* Vector design, DNA cloning, PCR, protein expression and purification

Nice to have

* Experience with microbial metabolism modeling and competency in related coding languages
* Prior experience at a biotech startup
* Experience with genetic engineering/ synthetic biology
* Knowledge of metal chemistry in aqueous systems

What We Offer

* Competitive compensation packages that include ownership in the company
* Health insurance
* Catered lunches
* Child care onsite or subsidy