MycoWorks is the biotechnology company that produces Reishi™, a Fine Mycelium™ option for leather that is neither animal nor plastic. We are currently shipping product to brand partners in fashion, and we are backed by some of the leading venture capital firms in Silicon Valley. Our mission is to benefit the world with new materials that offer superior performance to animal leathers and plastic. As a team, we are data-driven in our commitment to quality, and we strive for transparency, empathy and thriving in the relationships we’re building with customers, partners, and each other.

MycoWorks is committed to building a diverse team and an inclusive environment where all employees belong. Women, gender non-confirming individuals, people of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans and LGBTQ candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Mycoworks is seeking a Senior Research Associate to support our downstream Process Development team in characterization and development of our materials. The ideal candidate will have experience with mechanical characterization like tensile, tear strengths, and biophysical and biomaterial characterization tools like SEM, FTIR, TGA, DSC. As the newest analytical team member, you will help build out and operationalize our new screening platform. 
 
The role will also involve development and implementation of chemical/biochemical approaches and unit operations to process mycelia and transform it into leather-like material that meet customer specs, application, and targets. An aptitude towards understanding the chemistry/biochemistry of our mycelial materials post-fermentation and their interaction with different chemical species is key. You will interact cross-functionally with Fermentation, Quality, Tech transfer as well as leather product experts.

Responsibilities:

  • Help develop and manage our materials characterization and development platform utilizing statistical process control, time-saving lab techniques, and data-driven continuous improvement 
  • Design, execute and analyze carefully controlled experiments to characterize mycelial microstructure, its surface and bulk properties 
  • Design, execute and analyze experiments to troubleshoot process parameters and experiments
  • Build and maintain data-tracking pipelines (e.g. sample submission, experiment design, data processing, etc.)
  • Create and maintain documentation including accurate laboratory records, data on research methods, procedures, SOPs and results 
  • Maintain and troubleshoot instrument hardware
  • Gain thorough understanding of the microstructure and chemical composition of the mycelial substrate, help develop innovative chemistries and processes to deliver material with extraordinary performance
  • Help establish and maintain research laboratory for downstream material development 
  • Be an advocate for and adhere to all laboratory safety protocols
  • Promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture

Qualifications

  • M.S. degree in Chemistry, Materials Sciences, Biochemistry, or related field with at least one year of industry experience, or B.S. degree with at least three years of industry experience, or a comparable combination of experience and training. Three years, cumulative, experience in laboratory or process development setting is required
  • Knowledge in fundamental chemistry and proven capability in materials characterization
  • Experience in independent design and management of parallel experiment streams 
  • Ability to work independently as well as within a technical team, and thrive in a multidisciplinary environment  
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work with others, and meet milestones in a fast-paced setting
  • Strong written and verbal communications skills, effectively tailored to audiences of different knowledge levels
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to learn new methodologies for changing research priorities

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