Fermentation Microbiologist
はっこうびせいぶつけんきゅうしゃ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Research and Technical Occupations
- Middle : Researchers
- Minor : Natural Science Researchers
Summary
A researcher who studies the fermentation mechanisms of microorganisms and develops and optimizes fermentation processes for food, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, etc.
Description
Fermentation microbiologists target microorganisms such as yeast, lactic acid bacteria, and actinomycetes to elucidate fermentation mechanisms, explore optimal culture conditions, scale up processes, analyze metabolic products, and more. They design and conduct multi-stage experiments from small-scale laboratory tests to pilot-scale using bioreactors, and evaluate the obtained data through statistical analysis and modeling. Aiming for applications in diverse fields such as food, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and bioplastics, important tasks also include industry-academia collaboration projects, joint research, conference presentations, and patent applications.
Future Outlook
Due to advances in biotechnology and the SDGs perspective, demand for fermentation technology is on the rise. Applications in alternative proteins, bio-materials, and pharmaceuticals are expanding, increasing the demand for experts.
Personality Traits
Cooperative / Curious and inquisitive / Excellent observation skills / Patient
Work Style
Conference Trips / Flex Time / Industry-Academia Collaboration Projects / Private Company Research Labs / Research Institutions
Career Path
Research Assistant → Postdoc (Postdoctoral Researcher) → Researcher → Senior Researcher/Research Leader → R&D Department Manager
Required Skills
Bioreactor Operation / Data Analysis / Fermentation Process Analysis / Microbial Culture / Molecular Biology Techniques
Recommended Skills
Chemical Analysis Equipment Operation / English Paper Reading and Writing / Metabolomics Analysis / Programming (Python, R) / Scale-up Technology
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Logical thinking is essential for interpreting experimental results and data analysis. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because trace components or changes in experimental conditions affect the results. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Continuous learning is required for research on new technologies and novel microbial strains. |
| Problem Solving | Essential for troubleshooting fermentation processes and searching for optimal conditions. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly lab-based work with low physical demands. |
Related Qualifications
- Food Hygiene Manager
- Registered Sanitary Inspector
Aliases
- Fermentation Researcher
- Microbial Fermentation Researcher
Related Jobs
- Bioprocess Engineer
- Biotechnologist
- Brewing Technician
- Microbiologist