Downstream Processing Scientist

Company Overview: 

Would you like to be part of a leading-edge company that manufactures sustainable bio-products that positively impact human health and the environment? 

At Mara Renewables Corporation (Mara), we believe there has never been a more critical need to evolve the food system using the power of science and nature to build a more sustainable and healthier world. We plan to develop and continually improve upon our unique, patent-protected technologies to become the leader in health ingredients for human nutrition and related industries - but our overarching vision is to go even further. We aspire to repower nature’s pantry to reimagine nutrition and revitalize wellness. 

Mara has grown significantly in the past two years and expects continued expansion going forward. Our success is no accident. It is driven by a world-class research & development team that innovates & develops patented technologies, as well as our ability to lead scale-up capabilities and provide superior product quality. Our highly collaborative team spans Canada and the UK, with headquarters in Dartmouth, NS. 

The Position: 

Mara Renewable Corporation is looking for a Downstream Processing Research Scientist to join its innovation team. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work together with a team of forward-thinking innovators and business leaders as we build the platform for Mara’s continued growth and success. Daily activities for this position will include reviewing literature, designing and conducting experiments, compiling data, analyzing and reporting results, maintaining detailed records, ensuring lab supplies and equipment are maintained, and contributing to efficient and safe laboratory operations. 

Job Responsibilities: 

The key responsibilities of the role include but are not limited to: 

• Perform R&D laboratory experiments and activities to improve downstream process for improved yield and product quality as well as waste reduction.

• Participate in multidisciplinary research projects to support/troubleshoot production as well as to advance technology readiness.

• Support the work of senior scientists by recording experimental data and observations, collecting and analyzing experimental results, and organizing results into appropriate formats.

• Present experimental results to the team and other groups within R&D.

• Maintain a safe and tidy work environment by cleaning and maintaining labware and equipment and properly handling biological waste.

• May be required to complete tasks in a short time frame.

• Expected to work occasionally in the evenings and weekends due to the nature of biological and chemical experiments.

Required Skills & Experience: 

• Post-secondary education in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, food engineering or a related field is preferred.

• Minimum of 2 years research experience in a laboratory environment (chemistry lab and microbiology lab).

• Experience in literature review, experimental design, data analysis, and technical writing.

• Adept at developing and maintaining positive and constructive working relationships.

• Demonstrated experience working in a dynamic team environment, as well as ability to work independently.

• Ability to think critically and demonstrate troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to effectively organize, multitask, and work in a fast-paced, deadline driven work environment.

• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

• Must be legally eligible to work in Canada.

• Comfortable in working with hazardous chemicals, compressed gases and steam, and heavy equipment (30 lbs +).

Desired skills and experience: 

• Experience working with DoE/statistical software is preferred.

• Knowledge of the chemistry of lipids, fats, and oil would be considered a strong asset.

What We Offer:   

Mara is proud to offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including but not limited to: 

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plan.

• Employee & Family assistance program.

• RRSP matching program.

• Health spending account.

• Physical wellness reimbursement plan.

• Competitive compensation package

• Paid time-off.

• Opportunities for job related training and professional development.

At Mara we value diversity, equity, and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including persons who identify as racially visible, Indigenous, persons with disabilities, women in underrepresented roles and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Mara supports candidates and employees with access and accommodation needs.