Senior Scientist, Molecular Microbiology

Senior Scientist, Molecular Microbiology About DeNova DeNova is a Canadian biotechnology company developing sustainable food solutions through microbial fermentation. DeNova operates a research and development pilot facility in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, equipped for fermentation process development, analytical chemistry, and microbiology research. With its first commercial facility now under construction, DeNova is entering an exciting phase of growth – expanding its scientific, operational, and commercial capabilities to bring its first product, Psomi™, to market and contribute to the evolution of modern protein production. The Opportunity DeNova is seeking a Senior Scientist specializing in Molecular Microbiology to play a key role in advancing microbial strain development, metabolic engineering, and supporting the scale-up of DeNova’s protein cultivation platform. This role bridges molecular biology, microbial genetics, and fermentation process development – applying scientific insight to build more efficient, reliable, and scalable biomanufacturing systems. The successful candidate will lead strain optimization and contamination control initiatives, collaborating with research and technical operations teams to help translate R&D discoveries into industrial applications. This position offers the chance to contribute meaningfully to a growing, purpose-driven company that values curiosity, collaboration, and scientific excellence. Core Responsibilities Lead molecular biology research to develop and optimize microbial strains that improve performance and reliability in single-cell protein production. Analyze genetic data and study metabolic pathways to inform strain design and process optimization. Use molecular and genetic engineering approaches to understand and optimize microbial metabolic pathways, improving strain performance and product yield. Advance microbial monitoring and control strategies that strengthen consistency across R&D and production environments. Apply molecular insights to support DeNova’s scale-up from pilot to commercial operations. Provide scientific expertise in cross-functional discussions, contributing to research strategy, planning, and prioritization. Partner with process engineers and technical teams to bridge molecular biology and bioprocess development while fostering learning and collaboration within R&D. Analyze experimental data and communicate key findings through clear reports and presentations. Contribute to a positive, high-performing team culture grounded in curiosity, accountability, and DeNova’s mission-driven values. Required Qualifications Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Microbial Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field. 5+ years of relevant industry or applied research experience in microbial or molecular biology. Demonstrated expertise in microbial strain development, molecular cloning, and genetic manipulation. Hands‑on experience with microbial culturing, aseptic technique, and contamination troubleshooting in R&D or production settings. Experience developing or validating microbial identification, monitoring, or contamination control systems. Proficiency with molecular biology tools and techniques. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to interpret experimental data and translate results into actionable insights. Excellent communication and collaboration skills for multidisciplinary team environments. Strong organizational and documentation skills, capable of managing multiple concurrent projects and priorities. Ability to work safely and effectively in a laboratory environment, including standing for extended periods and lifting up to 40 lbs when needed. Preferred Qualifications Experience with microbial genome editing tools. Familiarity with fermentation-based product development or integration of molecular biology with bioprocess optimization. Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab, Python, R). Experience mentoring junior scientists or contributing to cross‑functional technical training. Familiarity with regulatory expectations for industrial biotechnology or GMP environments. Experience coordinating research activities with external collaborators, CMOs, or partner organizations. Why DeNova? Join a purpose‑driven biotech company advancing sustainable food production through microbial fermentation. Apply your expertise in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment to address real‑world challenges. Significant growth and development opportunities as the company scales and prepares for commercial launch to market. Competitive salary and benefits, with a team culture that values excellence, care, and whole‑person well‑being. How to Apply Please submit your resume and a concise cover letter explaining why you would be a good fit for this role through the company’s Bamboo HR hiring portal. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. At DeNova, we believe that diversity of thought, background, and experience fuels scientific discovery and innovation. We are committed to creating an environment where people of every ethnicity, identity, and lived experience can thrive. We actively encourage applications from women, Indigenous peoples, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and other historically underrepresented groups in science and technology. We recognize that candidates may not meet every listed qualification — if you’re excited about our mission and believe you have the skills to make an impact, we encourage you to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr