Process R&D Scientist Milano

Process R&D Scientist
Milano
Lombardia, Milano

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. Direct message the job poster from SMUSH Materials CTO and co-founder at SMUSH Materials, Master's Degree in Biomedical Engineering: biomechanics and biomaterials Smush Materials is driving the future of sustainable packaging, and we're growing fast Founded just over a year ago, we're at the forefront of innovation, using mycelium-based technology to replace EPS (expanded polystyrene) for industrial packaging. Packaging today is often wasteful. Industrial EPS (Styrofoam) packaging frequently escapes proper disposal, polluting our oceans, land, and ecosystems. We believe it's time for a change: materials that combine strength and performance with the ability to naturally decompose, leaving no harm behind. Join us in building the future of sustainable packaging With Smush, we're pushing the boundaries of biotech and material science to achieve that. We need your help to change the future—today and for future generations—together. Our mission? To eliminate single-use plastic pollution from the packaging industry. Our goal? To revolutionize packaging with compostable, eco-friendly solutions. We know the journey won't be easy, but that's why we're looking for smushers—people who share our vision and are ready to join forces to change the world. We're developing mycelium-based materials that are compostable and designed to reshape how companies package products—while contributing to a healthier planet. Are you ready to make an impact? Let's build a better future, one box at a time. As a young startup, we embrace challenges and foster a fast-paced, stimulating environment perfect for testing your skills, sharing experiences, and growing together. At Smush, you'll not only contribute to a green revolution but also have the opportunity to become an expert in this groundbreaking field. Hybrid working: Join us in our lab and office space, but with flexibility to work from home when needed. Opportunity for impact: You'll be a central figure in a company that's changing the way the world thinks about packaging. Dynamic team: Join a small, elite team with a deep passion for sustainability, innovation, and making a real impact on the planet. We are looking for a dynamic process developer scientist to bridge the gap between groundbreaking pilot-scale production and full industrialization. In this pivotal role, you will drive the development and optimization of processes for our cutting-edge mycelium-based materials, ensuring they are efficient, reproducible, and scalable. Additionally, you'll partner with our Design team to integrate product requirements into scalable manufacturing processes, ensuring that creativity and practicality work hand-in-hand. Collaborate with the R&D team to develop, scale, and optimize production processes for mycelium-based materials. Transition from pilot processes to industrial scale production, focusing on automation, machinery, and workflows. Define and refine operational parameters for quality and consistency. Troubleshoot pilot systems, enhance throughput, and propose engineering solutions. Select and evaluate equipment for large-scale production (e. g. , bioreactors). Apply Lean Manufacturing and sustainability practices to reduce waste and improve efficiency, and maintain alignment with sustainability goals. Document procedures, process flows, technical reports, and results, creating the groundwork for future full-scale production (plant design). Smush is in its early stages, and you'll play a pivotal role in scaling the company. As we grow, so will your responsibilities and career trajectory, with opportunities for leadership and executive roles as we expand our team and operations. Remember: this is ideal, although we know no one is perfect ;) 3 years of experience in process development, automation and process design, scale-up, or pilot plant operations, ideally within bio-based materials, fermentation, or sustainable manufacturing contexts. Master's degree (MSc) or PhD/Research in chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering (with a focus on production), Automation Engineering, Industrial chemistry, or related fields. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to implement Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies. Proven experience in automation and process design, including familiarity with PLC programming, instrumentation for environmental monitoring, and IoT sensor integration. Commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation, with knowledge of circular economy principles, LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), and carbon footprint analysis. Nice to Have Background in mycology, agritech, or bioproduction (biomaterials, natural polymers) and mycelium-based processes. Knowledge of plant layout, material handling, thermal management, and maintenance strategies. Familiarity with ISO/HACCP standards and quality documentation. Ability to interpret experimental data, conduct mass/energy balances, and use process simulation software (Aspen Plus, MATLAB, Python, or similar). Effective communication, teamwork, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Full-time Job function Research, Analyst, and Information Technology J-18808-Ljbffr