KwaZulu-Natal: Industrial Microbiologist at Waste to Ethanol Demonstration Plant posted by Stellenbosch University – Chemical Engineering

An exciting opportunity is available for an Industrial Microbiologist to play a pivotal role in a cutting-edge bioeconomy project focused on converting organic waste into ethanol. This role is integral to the operation of a mobile fermentation demonstration plant deployed at an industrial site, where sugar mill residues are valorised into renewable biofuel. The incumbent will lead the maintenance, preparation and propagation of yeast cultures, ensuring optimal fermentation performance under real industrial conditions. In addition to their microbiological expertise, they will participate in the day-to-day operations of the plant, which includes shift cover. This hands-on position provides a unique opportunity to develop advanced expertise in fermentation technology while gaining practical experience in industrial bioprocessing. Key responsibilities include the following. (i) Maintain yeast strains as part of the culture collection stock of the plant. (ii) Prepare and propagate yeast seed cultures using various fermenting yeast strains in a benchtop bioreactor. (iii) Maintain sterility and monosepsis in the seed train to prevent contamination during preparation, applying best practices in microbiological techniques and sterile processing. (iv) Ensure eseptic transfer of inoculum, in some case more than once in a single fermentation, into the demonstration plant bioreactor. (v) Monitoring of monoseptic conditions during demonstration scale fermentations. (vi) Develop, refine, and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) to optimise fermentation conditions and maximize ethanol yield. (vii) Coordinate procurement of essential materials and consumables as and when required to maintain seamless production workflows. (viii) Provide detailed operational reports, documenting key process metrics, troubleshooting efforts, and process improvements. This role demands a dedicated, detail-oriented, and proactive professional who thrives in a dynamic industrial environment. The successful candidate will be instrumental in advancing process development for bioprocess technology, working under the guidance of the management team at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Stellenbosch University. Minimum Qualifications: A National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, BTech, BEng, or BSc Eng in Microbiology or Biochemistry from a recognized and accredited Higher Education Institution. A minimum of two years experience in industrial microbiology, bioprocessing, or fermentation technology. Essential Skills and Experience: Hands-on experience with bench-scale and larger-scale bioreactors, operating under aseptic conditions. Strong knowledge of batch and fed-batch fermentation, including troubleshooting and process optimization. Experience with working with high solid feedstocks in submerged culture will be considered a plus. Proficiency in contamination control, including testing via agar plates and microscopy. Expertise in yeast culture preparation, growth medium formulation, and optimisation of biomass and product concentration and yield. Familiarity with stock culture maintenance and storage techniques. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency in data analysis, documentation, and reporting, using word processing and spreadsheet software. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead teams and coordinate operations in a multidisciplinary environment.