Pivot Bio
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Scientist III – Strain Engineer
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Pivot Bio About Pivot Bio: Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of microbiology, genomics, crop nutrition and agriculture, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in fertilizer technology. Our first commercial product harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes, modern gene editing and application technologies to provide nitrogen to crops. We are dedicated to providing new solutions for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population. We’re looking for a passionate, self-motivated Strain Engineer who thrives on solving tough biological problems and turning ideas into innovations that work in the field. You will engineer non-model, plant-associated bacteria and help deliver the next generation of products to transform the way the world grows food. Key Responsibilities:
Strain Development & Engineering Engineer plant-associated bacterial strains using advanced genome editing and molecular biology approaches. Apply expertise in primary metabolism to design strategies that improve microbial fitness, nutrient exchange, and productivity in planta. Develop assays to assess genetic changes. Develop and adapt genetic tools for non-model host organisms. Integrate metabolic knowledge and systems biology insights to design strains that are robust, stable, and effective in diverse agricultural environments. Scientific Leadership Serve as a subject matter expert in microbial physiology, primary metabolism, and non-model bacterial engineering. Lead independent strain engineering projects from concept to validation. Mentor junior scientists and associates. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Fermentation and Formulation, Application, and Field teams. Deploy engineering tools to support downstream projects. Work closely with the Automation and Assay teams. Engage with legal and regulatory teams. Communicate findings and technical recommendations clearly to diverse stakeholders. Innovation & Knowledge Building Stay at the forefront of microbial genetics, synthetic biology, and plant-microbe symbioses research. Contribute to Pivot Bio’s intellectual property portfolio. Support regulatory submissions. Publish or present research findings as appropriate. Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Biochemical Engineering, or related field with 4+ years of post-doctoral or industry experience. Proven track record in microbial strain engineering. Strong foundation in primary metabolism. Experience engineering traits beyond nitrogen fixation. Demonstrated ability to lead projects and mentor team members. Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with diazotrophic microbes or other beneficial plant symbionts. Background in microbial-plant nutrient exchange, carbon metabolism, stress tolerance, or metabolite biosynthesis. Experience with methodologies for quantification and NGS studies. Experience with metabolic pathway mapping/modeling. What We Offer:
Competitive package in a disruptive startup. Stock options. Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums. Life, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies. Employee Assistance Program. 401(k) plan, 3% Match. Commuter benefits. Annual Training & Development support. Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule. Hiring Compensation Range: $121,600—$152,000 USD.
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Scientist III – Strain Engineer
role at
Pivot Bio About Pivot Bio: Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of microbiology, genomics, crop nutrition and agriculture, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in fertilizer technology. Our first commercial product harnesses the power of naturally-occurring microbes, modern gene editing and application technologies to provide nitrogen to crops. We are dedicated to providing new solutions for farmers to improve yield as they work to help feed the world’s growing population. We’re looking for a passionate, self-motivated Strain Engineer who thrives on solving tough biological problems and turning ideas into innovations that work in the field. You will engineer non-model, plant-associated bacteria and help deliver the next generation of products to transform the way the world grows food. Key Responsibilities:
Strain Development & Engineering Engineer plant-associated bacterial strains using advanced genome editing and molecular biology approaches. Apply expertise in primary metabolism to design strategies that improve microbial fitness, nutrient exchange, and productivity in planta. Develop assays to assess genetic changes. Develop and adapt genetic tools for non-model host organisms. Integrate metabolic knowledge and systems biology insights to design strains that are robust, stable, and effective in diverse agricultural environments. Scientific Leadership Serve as a subject matter expert in microbial physiology, primary metabolism, and non-model bacterial engineering. Lead independent strain engineering projects from concept to validation. Mentor junior scientists and associates. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Fermentation and Formulation, Application, and Field teams. Deploy engineering tools to support downstream projects. Work closely with the Automation and Assay teams. Engage with legal and regulatory teams. Communicate findings and technical recommendations clearly to diverse stakeholders. Innovation & Knowledge Building Stay at the forefront of microbial genetics, synthetic biology, and plant-microbe symbioses research. Contribute to Pivot Bio’s intellectual property portfolio. Support regulatory submissions. Publish or present research findings as appropriate. Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Biochemical Engineering, or related field with 4+ years of post-doctoral or industry experience. Proven track record in microbial strain engineering. Strong foundation in primary metabolism. Experience engineering traits beyond nitrogen fixation. Demonstrated ability to lead projects and mentor team members. Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with diazotrophic microbes or other beneficial plant symbionts. Background in microbial-plant nutrient exchange, carbon metabolism, stress tolerance, or metabolite biosynthesis. Experience with methodologies for quantification and NGS studies. Experience with metabolic pathway mapping/modeling. What We Offer:
Competitive package in a disruptive startup. Stock options. Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums. Life, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies. Employee Assistance Program. 401(k) plan, 3% Match. Commuter benefits. Annual Training & Development support. Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule. Hiring Compensation Range: $121,600—$152,000 USD.
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