Formulation Scientist / Technical Lead (Biological Formulations)

Job Title: Formulation Scientist / Technical Lead (Biological Formulations)

Location: Boston, MA (On-site / Laboratory)

Reporting To: Senior Director, Bioprocessing and Formulations

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Formulation Scientist to drive formulation development for next-generation agricultural biological products. In this role, you will lead projects from early concept through experimental proof-of-concept, translating cutting-edge science into viable, scalable field solutions. Reporting to the Senior Director of Bioprocessing and Formulations, you will independently design studies, address complex stability and compatibility challenges, maintain a hands-on presence in the laboratory, and provide technical mentorship across cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

Advance the development of biological formulations by identifying, evaluating, and applying novel delivery technologies from concept through experimental proof-of-concept.

Independently design, execute, and analyze rigorous formulation studies addressing microbial viability, shelf-life stability, compatibility, physical properties, and field application performance.

Take end-to-end ownership of formulation projects and technical direction, proactively identifying risks, mitigating failure modes, and pivoting experimental plans as priorities evolve.

Select, screen, and optimize excipients, carriers, and functional materials tailored to protect and deliver living biological systems.

Serve as a formulation Subject Matter Expert (SME), contributing scientific leadership, introducing new methodologies, and mentoring junior team members.

Maintain an active hands-on presence in the laboratory, combining scientific principles with creative problem-solving.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Food Science, or a related discipline with 2+ years of relevant formulation experience; OR

M.S. in a relevant discipline with 5+ years of relevant industry formulation experience.

Core Technical Expertise: Demonstrated mastery of physicochemical principles, including colloid and interface science, rheology, particle characterization, and material properties.

Biological Formulation Experience: Hands-on experience working with living systems (e.g., bacteria, fungi, microbial inoculants) and an understanding of the physiological constraints required to preserve biological viability.

Advanced Delivery Skills: Experience with encapsulation, microencapsulation, polymeric coatings, or controlled-release systems is highly desirable.

Industry Focus: Experience developing agricultural formulations (seed treatments, foliar sprays, or soil applications) is strongly preferred.

Soft Skills & Mindset: Proven ability to work independently, make sound scientific decisions, challenge assumptions, and communicate complex data effectively to multi-disciplinary teams.

Compensation & Benefits

Base Salary: $130,000 – $150,000 annually (commensurate with experience)

Incentives: Long-term equity options and annual performance cash bonus

Retirement: 401(k) savings plan

Time Off: Flexible Time Off (FTO), paid company holidays, annual end-of-year shutdown week, sick leave, and parental leave

Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, mental health, and disability coverage; optional HSA/FSA plans