ABOUT KERRY

Kerry is the world’s leading taste and nutrition company for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Every day we partner with customers to create healthier, tastier and more sustainable products that are consumed by billions of people across the world. Our vision is to be our customers’ most valued partner, creating a world of sustainable nutrition. A career with Kerry offers you an opportunity to shape the future of food while providing you opportunities to explore and grow in a truly global environment.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• MS, PhD or equivalent in microbiology, biotechnology, bioprocess, bioengineering, system biology, metabolic modelling, micro engineering, biochemistry in relevant field
• Experience in a similar role, developing media formulation for starter cultures, probiotics and enzyme cultures, optimization of media, growth parameters and yield is required
• Experience of hands-on research and development in microbial fermentation or industrial microbiology, whether in industry or academic setting.
• Autonomous operation of bioreactor systems (HTS/mini-scale, bench scale, lab/pilot-scale) with advanced controls is highly advantageous
• Understanding on various microbial batch, fed-batch and continuous fermentation is advantage
• Demonstrate an ability for multi-tasking, in planning and time management
• Experience with Bio-screening and hands on experience on analytical techniques (Bioassay, enzymatic assay, biochemical assays, HPLC, etc) is advantageous
• Competence in general microbiology laboratory practices and aseptic techniques.
• Competence in writing technical documents such as research reports, SOPs, etc. Proficiency with Excel or other data processing/visualization software is desirable
• Experience with numerical techniques or programming languages, data plotting with different software is plus
• Experience in selecting/benchmarking and trouble-shooting of laboratory equipment is advantageous. Experience working in collaborative and multi-cultural/international environments in a plus
• Excellent communication skills and intercultural sensitivity. Able to speak additional language for communicating with suppliers/customers is plus

ABOUT THE ROLE

The role of an R&D Scientist - Bioprocess is an exciting permanent position based in the vibrant Kerry Global Technology & Innovation Centre in Naas, Co. Kildare. Reporting to the R&D Manager, you will be an integral part of the Fermentation Center of Excellence (CoE).
This is not just any role; this is an opportunity to collaborate with talented Kerry professionals from around the globe and occasionally travel to various sites to support critical activities. Imagine the thrill of sharing ideas with experts worldwide and applying your skills in diverse settings!
As part of your responsibilities, you will bring your expertise to the forefront, working hands-on with bacterial and yeast systems. Whether developing new fermentation processes, scaling them up or down, or producing innovative data on starter cultures, probiotics, and enzyme cultures, your work will shape the future. You will explore raw materials, perfect media formulations, and create valuable protein hydrolysates and yeast extracts.
Your journey with us will require preliminary experience and technical leadership in key areas such as bio-screening, culture screening, shake flask DOE, and bioreactor operations. Your analytical prowess in bioassays and enzymatic assays will be instrumental in pushing the boundaries of our research.
What sets this role apart is the strategic collaboration with Kerry’s global team and third-party experts. You will combine hands-on bioprocess approaches with “in silico” analytical techniques to spearhead groundbreaking projects. Your efforts will directly impact the development of Kerry’s portfolio of fermentation-derived yeast extracts, protein hydrolysates, and applications for cell culture, probiotics, enzymes, and animal nutrition.
Join us in this dynamic role and be at the forefront of innovation, driving the future of fermentation science!

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead or participate in fermentation innovation and development projects.
• Develop capabilities in culture screening, shake flask and bioreactor DOE, and analytical measurement.
• Set priorities and goals for cross-functional project teams to create competitive advantages.
• Collaborate on strategic projects with third parties and global R&D teams to align objectives with business needs and market conditions.
• Plan and conduct research to develop media, optimize growth parameters, and validate yields.
• Develop microbial fermentation processes for yeast extract and protein hydrolysate for various applications.
• Ensure accuracy of technical reports, SOPs, and scientific presentations.
• Perform literature searches and patent reviews to support product development.
• Train team members on fermentation equipment and methods.
• Maintain lab operations, including maintenance, hygiene, consumables, procedures, and QSHE.
• Participate in selecting and commissioning new equipment