Nature’s Fynd is a groundbreaking food tech company born out of NASA-supported research on extremophiles in the geothermal pools of Yellowstone National Park. Our novel fermentation technology produces a sustainable source of complete protein using only a fraction of the resources required by traditional agriculture. As the challenge to feed the world’s expanding population grows, our mission is to create amazing foods and materials that provide sustainable choices and nurture the planet.
We’re looking for passionate, driven, and ambitious people to join our fast-growing team.
As a Food Biochemist in the ingredient science (Fy Science) team you will be responsible for designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments to develop new applications of a mycoprotein for use in food. This could include work on the isolation, characterization, and functionalization of proteins from mycoprotein as well as the development of new food products utilizing these functional proteins. The biochemist would be expected to have a strong background in protein chemistry, and biochemistry, as well as experience in laboratory techniques such as protein purification and characterization. In addition to conducting experiments, the biochemist would be responsible for interpreting data and communicating findings to a team of scientists, as well as collaborating with other departments such as Ramp;D, QA/QC, product development, and production. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as experience in project management, are also important for this role
As a Food Biochemist at Nature’s Fynd, you will be a key member of the Fy Science team in Ramp;D serving as a subject matter expert for protein functionality and characterization of mycoprotein. You will work cross-functionally to improve the taste, texture, and appearance of products. This role will report directly to the Chief Science officer.
This position will be in Chicago, Illinois at our 2075 W 43rd St location
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Investigate the composition of different mycoprotein ingredients including proteins, peptides carbohydrates, and small molecules
- Elucidate the functionality of the specific components of the mycoprotein ingredient
- Understand the interaction(s) of the ingredient in food matrices with other functional ingredients
- Investigate food technology to improve the ingredients for sensory, functionality, or composition
- Work cross-functionally with product development to translate insights on ingredients and specific components to food prototypes
- Independently execute tasks including the development of new assays, setting up new methods, regular sample handling, and developing analytical methods
- Working well in teams to develop new technology and products you'd never achieve on your own
- Provide data-driven insights to solve technical challenges
- Conduct bench-top work, and analyze, and summarize present scientific outcomes
- Provide accurate, clear, and concise reports on Ramp;D activities
Position Requirements:
- Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Protein Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related biological science field, with 5+ years of research expertise in protein biochemistry and biological polymer biochemistry (including characterization and purification strategies)
- Industrial experience required
- Expertise with a range of analytical techniques in protein biochemistry and polymer chemistry
- Experience in food characterization and functionality of ingredients
- Experience in protein modeling and protein structure-function analysis and software
- Interest in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and willingness to brainstorm in topics outside your area of research
- Ability to work independently, but as part of a wider team
- Willingness to mentor both senior and junior research colleagues
- Excellent communication, presentation, and organizational skills
Benefits:
- Participation in Employee Stock Ownership Program
- 100% paid employee benefits (medical, dental, vision)Generous Parental leave policy
- Opportunity to join a company with an aggressive growth trajectory that will revolutionize multiple industries
- Engaging and dynamic work culture full of innovation and collaboration with your fellow Fynders
Commitment To Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, And Belonging:
- Nature’s Fynd views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values
EEO Statement:
- We are an equal opportunity emp