Research Associate

at  Elevation Capital

ABOUT US

LEVO Naturals is a group of purpose-driven companies harnessing the restorative power of botanicals to enhance overall health and well-being. Our name “LEVO” comes from the Latin word levare, meaning “to lift” or “to relieve.” Blending traditional ingredients, innovation, and cutting-edge science, we develop and market a wide range of great-tasting ethnobotanical consumer products, including extracts, concentrates, tonics, herbal teas, tinctures, and leaf powders. Today, our team has grown to over 150 passionate and committed partners located throughout the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Asia. Since our launch, our products have been purchased more than 100 million times and are enjoyed by millions of consumers every year.

THE ROLE

Reporting to the CSO, the research associate will design and conduct research projects and gather relevant scientific information to support the development, manufacturing, quality assurance and regulatory compliance of botanical products.
Working closely with members of the research team, CSO, and external partners, the research associate will play a critical role in proactively obtaining scientific data and information supporting the development and improvement of therapeutic plant-based products to support human health and well-being. The ideal candidate is passionate about science and health, and an excellent scientific communicator.
Lead accountabilities will include the planning, budgeting and implementation of scientific experiments to develop product prototypes, meeting technical and regulatory requirements. The incumbent must be highly proficient at monitoring academic and science-based publications, drafting clear and concise summaries and synopses. The ability to critically review and develop analytical methodology, design validation protocols and translate technical processes and analytical methods to contractors are essential skills. The candidate will be expected to contribute to presentations, publications, and communication materials for various audiences including the executive team, business partners, investors, employees, policy makers, the scientific community, consumers and the public at large. The incumbent must be proficient with Microsoft products and work with operations, regulatory and IT departments to maintain documentation and document control for regulatory auditing.
The researcher must have a good understanding of regulatory requirements for dietary supplements, natural health products and traditional medicines in North America, with international experience being a desirable skill set. The incumbent must be able to use this knowledge in the drafting and preparation of summaries and supporting materials for regulatory applications and legal proceedings such as new dietary ingredient notifications, GRAS affirmations and scientific claim substantiations.
Preference will be provided to experienced candidates with demonstrated experience in the critical evaluation and presentation of scientific data to support the safety and efficacy of botanical products. This role is perfect for a well-organized, strategic, and seasoned scientist who is looking for a challenging opportunity with a purpose-driven company working to create a healthier and more peaceful world by reconnecting people with nature and natural medicine.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Design, budget and implement scientific experiments for the preparation and development of biologically active botanical product and ingredient prototypes. Meeting specific regulatory and technical requirements.
Develop and implement analytical protocols to access the quality, safety and efficacy of botanical raw materials, ingredients, prototypes, and finished product.
Monitor, collect, review, collate and categorize relevant scientific publications, media reports, and experiment results to keep abreast of any scientific, regulatory, and technological advancements within the relevant fields.
Draft accessible, scientific summaries and synopsis for internal and external communication and informational materials. Draft scientific summaries and sections to support regulatory applications such as new dietary ingredient notifications, GRAS affirmations and scientific claim substantiations.
Advanced scientific degree (MS, PhD, PharmD) or Master of Public Health.
Min 6 years experience in a field related to botanical science and natural products chemistry and 2 years in an industrial environment.
Significant experience in the development and performance evaluation of analytical techniques for determining identity, purity and strength of botanical ingredients.
Experience in the maintaining and operation of analytical instrumentation including HPLC, LC/MS/MS, GC/MS and NMR instruments.
Excellent written communications skills, including a proven ability to organize, analyze and convey technical material in a clear and concise manner.
Knowledge of Health Canada, FDA and FTC regulation of consumer products, in particular for traditional medicines. An understanding of CBD, cannabis and psychedelics Industry is an asset.
Must be collaborative, with a demonstrated ability to work well at all levels and in all departments of a business to achieve objectives.
Ability to work well under pressure, both independently and with a team in a remote environment.
Proficient in computer technology, especially Microsoft Office applications and experience using multiple technology platforms