Location
onsite — cuernavaca, morelos (mx)
about bioplastix
we're an early-stage biotechnology startup that has already secured pre-seed investment and is growing fast, pursuing ambitious milestones. At bioplastix, we
develop next-generation bioplastics via precision fermentation
. Our mission is simple: to make bioplastics not just possible, but inevitable.
working here is very different from academia. Our environment is
dynamic, fast-paced, and constantly changing
. We learn quickly, adapt rapidly, and embrace agile methodologies. Mistakes are not a problem—
not learning from them is.
our engineered microbial strains—built with synthetic biology and ai-driven enzyme optimization—convert diverse sugars (including those from agricultural residues) into intracellular pla-phb copolymers. By tuning the pla/phb ratio, we tailor properties for applications in
single-use packaging, medical devices, and biodegradable films
. The result: longer polymer chains and bioplastics with significantly improved biodegradability and thermoplastic performance compared to standard pla and phb.
the role (early-stage, high ownership)
as a
fermentation scientist
, you will work directly with the cto and cso to lead fermentation optimization and scale-up from
1 l to pilot (~300 l)
. You will collaborate closely with teams in strain engineering, analytics, and downstream processing to bring pla-phb materials from lab to market.
this role offers a chance to
learn a lot, be creative, and have a real impact
. What you build here will matter for the future of sustainability. We are still a small team, which means you will work closely with the founders and have plenty of opportunities to grow as the company grows.
what you'll do
* design, execute, and optimize fermentation processes to achieve target yield, titer, and productivity.
* operate, monitor, and troubleshoot bioreactors at multiple scales (shake flasks to 1–300 l).
* develop and refine fermentation strategies (feeding, induction, etc.) to maximize product formation.
* apply scale-up criteria (e.g., otr/our, kla, p/v) to ensure robust performance up to pilot scale.
* collaborate with strain engineering and analytics to integrate new strains into fermentation workflows.
* support downstream recovery and characterization of pla-phb copolymers.
* analyze fermentation data (growth kinetics, yield, productivity, etc.) and run doe/iterative experiments.
* maintain clear experimental records, sops, and communicate results in team meetings.
* propose new process approaches informed by literature, data, and process modeling.
* foster a collaborative, positive work environment across teams.
* translate strain improvements into scalable bioprocesses alongside the cto.
what you'll bring (must-have)
* m.sc. in biological engineering, biotechnology, chemical engineering, or related field, with bioprocess experience; or b.sc. with equivalent industry experience.
* hands-on experience optimizing fermentation processes, ideally up to
~300 l scale
.
* basic knowledge of downstream recovery (especially pha/pla-phb).
* entrepreneurial mindset, strong attention to detail, proactive and eager to learn.
* experience with microbial fermentation (industrially relevant hosts preferred).
* strong organizational skills and ability to work independently.
* effective written and verbal communication; clear presentation of data and ideas.
* adaptability to a fast-paced startup environment.
nice to have
* familiarity with analytical methods (hplc, gpc, gc, etc.) is a plus.
* pha process r&d experience.
* experience with scale-up and tech transfer.
* prior exposure to early-stage startups.
* strong english skills, written and oral.
* we will give preference to female candidates, as part of our commitment to gender balance.
why bioplastix, why now
consumer demand and regulation are driving the transition away from fossil-based plastics. Bioplastix is scaling toward
1,000 l capacity
, positioning itself as a key player in sustainable bioplastics. This is a unique moment to join and help shape the future of materials.
what we offer
* significant growth opportunities as the company scales.
* a culture that values teamwork, diversity, and continuous learning.
* the chance to have a
positive impact on human and planetary health
.
* training and development plans tailored to your growth.
* the opportunity to experiment, learn, and be part of one of the most innovative startups in mexico.
* exposure to the entrepreneurial ecosystem and cutting-edge biotechnology.
how to apply
apply directly via linkedin with your cv (optional: add 2–3 bullets highlighting your biggest yield/titer/productivity gains).