R&D Process Development Scientist

ABOUT CELLESTE BIO

Celleste Bio is a cocoa-tech company producing real cocoa ingredients from plant cell cultures - growing cocoa without cocoa trees. By combining plant cell biology, bioprocess engineering and data-driven development, we are building a sustainable, scalable and climate-resilient supply of one of chocolate’s most essential ingredients.

We are now scaling our process from the lab toward pilot production, and we are looking for a hands-on researcher to help us bridge research and real-world manufacturing.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for a skilled and driven R&D/Process Development Scientist to join our team. You will take ownership of our bioreactor systems, bridge the gap between R&D and Process Development and Data Science activities, and lead hands-on experimentation to optimize plant cell suspension culture. This is a role for someone who combines scientific curiosity with operational precision and thrives in a collaborative, fast-moving biotech environment.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Set up, operate, and optimize current and new bioreactor systems for plant cell suspension cultures.
•  Serve as the interface between R&D, Process Development, and Data Science teams - ensuring alignment on experimental goals, data flows, and process transfers.
• Design and execute scientific experiments aimed at optimizing plant cell suspension growth, including media, feeding strategies, and environmental parameters.
• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve protocols, SOPs, and documentation workflows in digital documentation systems.

WHAT YOU BRING - CORE REQUIREMENTS

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with bioreactor systems (bench-scale or above).
• High technical skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex processes independently.
• Professional-level English.
•  Demonstrated experience writing and working with protocols and SOPs.
• Previous experience in a biotech or pharma company - required.

STRONG ADVANTAGES

• Experience with plant cell suspension cultures.
• Familiarity with digital documentation systems (e.g., ELN, LIMS, or similar).
• Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DoE) methodology.
• Knowledge of SQL, R, or Python for data handling and analysis.
• Background in statistics and experimental data interpretation.

Location & How to Apply

Full-time, on-site at Celleste Bio’s facilities in Northern Israel.

Send your CV here on Linkedin or to [email protected].

• Only applications that include a cover letter will be considered.

Celleste Bio is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds.