As a global key player in yeasts and fermentation, Lesaffre designs, manufactures and markets innovative solutions for Baking, Food taste & pleasure, Health care and Biotechnology.

Family group born in northern France in 1853, now a multi-national and a multicultural company, Lesaffre is committed to working with confidence to better nourish and protect the planet.
In close collaboration with its clients and partners, Lesaffre employs 11 000 people in more than 50 countries.

Lesaffre achieves a turnover of 3 billion euros.

We, as bioengineering, develop and operate the largest private integrated industrial biofoundry in France, working in conjunction to a Gene Editing Synthetic Biology hub in the USA, and deliverto the Lesaffre’s Mission of “Working together to better nourish and protect the planet”.

Our Mission: We lead microbial engineering for a sustainable future. 

Keywords: Synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, biofabrication, genetic circuit design, DNA assembly, high-throughput assembly, automation, Python, laboratory informatics. 

Job Description

Reshape the Future of Industrial Biotechnology as our Synthetic Biology Manager

Lesaffre's Biofoundry is seeking an experienced Synthetic Biology expert to lead our talented team and drive groundbreaking innovations. In this pivotal role, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of sustainable biotechnology and make a tangible impact on Lesaffre's mission to "better nourish and protect the planet."

As the Head of Synthetic Biology, you will leverage your exceptional technical expertise and proven managerial skills to:

• Build and inspire a high-performing, multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers. Your ability to mentor, set goals, and motivate cross-functional groups will be crucial.
• Design and construct novel genetic pathways and microbial chassis using state-of-the-art synthetic biology tools. Translate customer requirements into groundbreaking strain designs that redefine the boundaries of what's achievable.
• Develop automated workflows to rapidly prototype, test, and optimize engineered microorganisms. Collaborate seamlessly with our HTS, Automation, and other CoE teams to integrate your synthetic biology solutions.
• Stay at the forefront of the latest synthetic biology advancements and continuously enhance our capabilities. Your passion for innovation will drive the team to new heights.
• Represent the Biofoundry's synthetic biology initiatives both internally and externally, sharing your expertise through presentations and technical reports.

• Proven experience in leading teams with multiple layers of reports
• PhD in synthetic biology, molecular biology, bioengineering, or a related field
• Proficiency in DNA assembly techniques (Gibson, Golden Gate, modular cloning)
• Expertise in genome editing (CRISPR Cas, lambda red, etc.)
• Understanding intellectual property rights in biotechnologies would be an asset
• Familiarity with laboratory automation, liquid handling, and data management tools
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and international team
• Excellent communication and presentation skills in English

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of industrial biotechnology and contribute to Lesaffre's mission of creating a more sustainable world. If you are passionate about synthetic biology and ready to push the boundaries of what's possible, we encourage you to apply. 

What can Lesaffre International offer you:

• We are a successful family-owned company with long-standing history where people truly matter.
• We promote a sense of fulfilment with a genuine mission: nourish and protect the planet.
• A good working atmosphere, in a brand-new Campus (With a Gym, a Restaurant, …) fostering synergies and teamwork.

At Lesaffre, diversity is a strength that enriches our culture and our teams. We are committed to offering you a work environment where you can thrive, regardless of your background, gender, age or abilities. We encourage all applications, as we believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our ability to innovate and meet the challenges of tomorrow.