Research Fellow

Position description

Create written resources in alternative protein fermentation bioprocesses

The Good Food Institute (GFI) is a nonprofit think tank working to make the global food system better for the planet, people, and animals. Alongside scientists, businesses, and policymakers, GFI’s teams focus on making plant-based, fermentation-derived, and cultivated meat delicious, affordable, and accessible. Powered by philanthropy, GFI is an international network of organizations advancing alternative proteins as an essential solution needed to meet the world’s climate, global health, food security, and biodiversity goals.

How You Will Make a Difference 

In this role, you will have the opportunity to apply your scientific background to review major topics in fermentation to share with the alternative protein (AP) ecosystem. Your research will be crucial in informing the AP ecosystem on fundamental knowledge in the space as well as identifying further opportunities for growth and innovation. The Research Fellow will be responsible for:

Project 1 (8 weeks):

• Conducting a literature review on microbial feedstocks and metabolism as they relate to AP-relevant production systems.
• Surveying the industry landscape for relevant examples of novel feedstocks and metabolism for AP-relevant microbes.
• Generating figures to represent the state of technology in fermentation feedstocks and metabolism.
• Preparing a draft review (“Deep Dive”) on microbial feedstocks and metabolism.
• Preparing a slide deck summarizing the major themes of the review.
• Recording a Massive Online Open Course (MOOC) Slide Presentation for this Deep Dive.

Project 2, Option 1: Concept Notes (4 weeks)

• In collaboration with GFI SMEs, choosing two topics of pressing need for the industry.
• Reviewing and selecting the topics of interest with guidance from supervisor and GFI fermentation team.
• Researching the current state of need for the fermentation-derived AP industry in selected topic area and potential solutions.
• Drafting Concept Notes for the two selected topics and proposed solution space.
• Participating in review of and presenting to GFI SMEs.

Project 2, Option 2: MOOC Presentations (4 weeks)

• Organizing existing Deep Dives (USP, DSP, Strain Development) into hour-long seminars for MOOC.
• Creating a slide deck for each deep dive.
• Presenting slide deck recording of each deck/MOOC lesson.
• Building out MOOC support resources.

Who We’re Looking For 

A successful candidate for the Research Fellow position will have experience that reflects the following:

• Ph.D. preferred; candidates currently pursuing a Ph.D. in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or aligned fields may also be considered. Candidates with a B.S. or M.Sc with at least 2 years of relevant experience can also apply.
• A strong understanding of fermentation bioprocesses, as well as coursework or other experience with microbiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
• Strong scientific writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to perform independent, self-paced work.
• A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Strong support for GFI’s philosophy and mission; demonstrated interest in plant-based & other alt proteins, public health, environmentalism, climate change, animal protection, or hunger relief.
• A commitment to GFI’s values: believe change is possible, do the most good we can, share knowledge freely, act on evidence, and invite everyone to the table.

We want the best people and we don’t want biases holding us back. We use a third-party anonymizing tool to redact personal information from submitted applications — including name, location, contact details, and several other factors — to reduce bias and increase fairness in our process. We strongly encourage people of every race, color, orientation, age, gender, origin, and ability to apply. Since we value a diverse workplace, we prioritize an inclusive climate absent of discrimination and harassment during the application process and after you join the team. 

Research indicates that men tend to apply for jobs when they meet just 60% of the criteria, while women and people from other marginalized groups only apply if they are a 100% match. If you are passionate about GFI’s mission and think you have what it takes to be successful in this role even if you don’t check all the boxes, please apply. We’d appreciate the opportunity to consider your application. 

The Fine Print

• Position Type: Independent Contractor
• Position Term: 20 hours of work a week for 12 weeks
• Reports to: Adam Leman, Lead Scientist, Fermentation
• Location: Remote, United States
• Stipend: $7,200 and will be paid pro-rata biweekly over the length of the assignment ($30/hour for 12 weeks)

Application instructions

Please be sure to indicate you saw this position on globalvacancies.org