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Full-Time

Scientist – Solid State Fermentation

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

MycoWorks

MycoWorks

201-500 employees

Produces sustainable mycelium-based leather alternative

Consumer Goods
Food & Agriculture

Compensation Overview

$125k - $138kAnnually

+ Equity

Mid

Oakland, CA, USA

Category
Biology Lab & Research
Biology & Biotech
Requirements
  • Ph. D. in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering or a related field; 2-4 years research experience in mycology, biotechnology, bioprocess development, fermentation, or a comparable combination in an industrial or academic setting
  • Experience with fungal systems is required
  • Experience characterizing microbial systems with a clear understanding of physiology, metabolism and knowledge of analytical chemistry methods for analyzing biomolecules is highly desirable.
  • Experience with solid state fermentation is ideal
  • Experience in profiling and characterizing lignocellulosic biomass and fermentation of lignocellulosic material is preferred
  • Ability to work successfully independently as well as within a technical team, and cross-functionally
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work with others, and meet milestones in a fast-paced setting
  • Strong written and verbal communications skills, effectively tailored to audiences of different knowledge levels
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to learn new methodologies for changing research priorities
Responsibilities
  • Thoroughly characterize our solid state fermentation process (biochemical characterization of fermentation inputs and outputs, primary and secondary metabolism, morphology of the organism)
  • Correlate process inputs with mycelium growth and quality of Reishi
  • Design, execute and analyze experiments in small and large scale platforms to develop upstream processes for improvement of specific product quality attributes
  • Develop biochemical and other methods to characterize fungal growth and metabolism
  • Communicate results of experimental and process design work cross-functionally
  • Assist in transferring technology from pilot plant to factory

MycoWorks produces a leather alternative called Reishi™, made from mycelium, which is a part of fungus. This material is designed to be sustainable and is appealing to fashion brands and designers seeking eco-friendly options. Reishi™ has already been used in luxury products, such as handbags and hats. The company has recently expanded by opening a large facility in South Carolina, which is the first commercial-scale plant for Fine Mycelium™, allowing them to increase production to meet rising demand. MycoWorks stands out from competitors by focusing specifically on mycelium-based materials, which offer both sustainability and performance. The goal of MycoWorks is to capture a significant share of the growing leather goods market by providing a viable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather.

Company Stage

Series C

Total Funding

$187.2M

Headquarters

Emeryville, California

Founded

2013

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

3%

1 year growth

6%

2 year growth

68%
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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • The opening of a 136,000 square foot facility in South Carolina positions MycoWorks to significantly scale up production and meet growing demand.
  • Collaborations with high-profile brands and designers, such as Cadillac and Deadwood Studios, enhance MycoWorks' visibility and market credibility.
  • The appointment of experienced luxury sector professionals like Ginevra Boralevi to the leadership team strengthens the company's strategic direction and brand positioning.

What critics are saying

  • The high cost of scaling production facilities could strain financial resources and impact profitability.
  • Dependence on luxury markets may limit broader adoption and make the company vulnerable to economic downturns affecting high-end consumer spending.

What makes MycoWorks unique

  • MycoWorks' Reishi™ is derived from mycelium, offering a unique and sustainable alternative to traditional leather, unlike many competitors who use synthetic or animal-based materials.
  • The company has established the world's first commercial-scale Fine Mycelium™ plant, showcasing its commitment to scaling production and meeting market demand.
  • Strategic partnerships with luxury brands like Hermès and Ligne Roset highlight MycoWorks' penetration into high-end markets, setting it apart from other sustainable material startups.