Department:
Proteins4Singapore
Posted Date:
7 April 2025
Closing Date:
Open until filled
Hours:
Full Time
Duration:
Full- & Part- time contract

JOB DESCRIPTION:

We are looking for an intern to assist in our microalgae cultivation research and production activities. This role will provide hands-on experience in all stages of microalgae cultivation, from lab-scale inoculation to pilot operations.
The project Proteins4Singapore aims to address Singapore’s aspiration to identify ways to domestically grow protein-rich raw materials for the production of novel foods. To this end, the cultivation of microalgae in highly urbanized environments will be investigated. With the growing demand for sustainable protein sources, microalgae present a promising solution due to their high protein content, area-efficient cultivation, and low environmental footprint.
In this microalgae cultivation project, the goal is to optimize cultivation processes to maximize growth and protein production, focusing on media optimization, to make the process more efficient and, finally, cost-effective. Moreover, protein measurement techniques will be employed throughout the cultivation process to accurately assess total protein yields and monitor variations in protein content under different growth conditions. The applied methods are: Microalgae cultivation, cultivation, grow kinetics, Protein analytics, bioreactor operation, spectrophotometry.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Currently enrolled in Chemical Engineering and Food Technology degree.
• Familiarity with laboratory procedures and equipment (pipetting, media preparation, sterilization techniques, chemical analysis) is preferred.
• Interest in bioprocess and bioreactors.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to follow protocols.
• A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work in a team.
• Ability to work in both lab and workshop environments.
• This role may involve lifting equipment or materials weighing up to 20 kg.

JOB REQUIREMENTS/COMPETENCIES:

• Currently enrolled in Diploma or Degree in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Food Science/Technology.
• Familiarity with laboratory procedures and equipment (pipetting, media preparation, sterilization techniques, chemical analysis) is preferred.
• Interest in bioprocess and bioreactors.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to follow protocols.
• A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work in a team.
• Ability to work in both lab and workshop environments.
• This role may involve lifting equipment or materials weighing up to 20 kg.
  This internship provides an opportunity to work on cutting-edge research at the intersection of biotechnology, sustainability, and food science. The successful candidate will gain practical experience in a dynamic and international research environment and contribute to Singapore’s protein innovation landscape.
  We encourage curiosity, creativity, and a passion for scientific exploration.

Lab and pilot-scale Operations:

• Prepare and sterilize media for microalgae cultivation.
• Monitor and record growth parameters in laboratory cultures to ensure optimal conditions.
• Operate and maintain cascade pond bioreactor, including monitoring of water and nutrient levels, physicochemical properties, and regular maintenance and cleaning.
• Assist with the installation and troubleshooting of cultivation systems as needed.
• Assist in the biomass assessment, harvesting, and post-harvest.
• Regularly monitor culture conditions (pH, temperature, light intensity, etc.), and ensure accurate data collection.
• Assist in the analysis and reporting of data for ongoing research and production improvement efforts.
• Maintain detailed logs of daily operations, including culture health, maintenance activities, and media/nutrient additions

Team Collaboration and Project Support:

• Assist in various project-based tasks, contributing to the establishment of protocols related to microalgae production.
• Work closely with senior researchers and engineers to understand project objectives and ensure smooth operation of research goals.
• Support continuous improvement efforts in the lab and pilot production environments.

Physical Tasks:

• Assist with moving and lifting materials or equipment (up to 20 kg) as part of pond operation and system maintenance.