Microbiologist with Quality Assurance Experience

About Us

Kismet Technologies is a pioneering nanotechnology company revolutionizing antimicrobials with our mineral-based technologies. Our cutting-edge, patent-pending nanotechnology platform uses a potent antimicrobial response to eradicate harmful bacteria, viruses, and biofilms. Kismet antimicrobial technologies (KAT) are mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles that instantly generate hydrogen peroxide upon contact with pathogens, resulting in their destruction. The increasing regulatory headwinds for metal and quaternary ammonia compound antimicrobials present a unique opportunity for KAT to disrupt the antimicrobial additive market.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Microbiologist with a strong background in Quality Assurance (QA) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to join our team. This role is critical to ensuring the highest levels of product safety, regulatory compliance, and scientific rigor throughout our manufacturing process. The ideal candidate will blend hands-on microbiology expertise with practical QA skills, proven track record in industrial and academic collaborations, leading projects as well as being a part of a team and benchtop testing from laboratory scale research to process scale-up, and a passion for innovation in the field of nanotechnology.

Key Responsibilities

Microbiological Testing & Research:

• Design, perform, and interpret microbiological assays to evaluate the efficacy of nanotechnology-based antimicrobial products against a broad spectrum of microorganisms.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary setting that includes a microbiology laboratory and the formulation of innovative antimicrobial products.
• Capable of following or modifying EPA or ASTM antimicrobial testing methods and SOPs to measure the effectiveness of hard surface disinfectants against microorganisms, according to the chemical characteristics of the product.
• Ability to work multiple research projects in collaboration with industry standards, from lab-scale development to process scale-up.
• Develop and validate novel test methods for characterizing antimicrobial activity and durability of nano-enabled materials.
• Optimize and scale nanotechnology and final products testing procedures as well as help in manufacturing procedures.
• Monitor, isolate, and identify microbial contaminants in raw materials, intermediate products, and finished goods.
• Investigate the mechanism of action of novel formulations and contribute to data-driven product improvements.
• Ensure quality control in analytical work.

Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance:

• Establish and maintain robust QA systems in accordance with ISO 9001, cGMP, and other relevant industry standards.
• Develop, implement, and monitor Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for laboratory, production, and quality control operations.
• Oversee documentation practices, batch record reviews, and ensure traceability from raw material to finished product.
• Work closely with R&D, engineering, and production teams to integrate QA best practices into every stage of product development.
• Contribute microbiological expertise to troubleshooting and root cause analysis of process deviations or product failures.

Qualifications:

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or a related scientific discipline (Bachelor’s with significant experience will be considered).
• Minimum 3 years’ hands-on experience in a microbiology laboratory, with at least 2 years in a QA or QC role within a manufacturing or scientific R&D setting.
• Understanding of antimicrobial mechanisms and the unique challenges associated with nanomaterial-biological interactions.
• Proven experience with method development, microbiological validation, and contamination investigations.
• Strong working knowledge of ISO, cGMP, and other quality standards applicable to medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or high-tech materials.
• Exceptional organizational and documentation skills; ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a startup environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics (R, Python) and analytical instrumentation (HPLC, GC-MS, SEM, TEM, spectroscopy)
• Experience in pilot to industrial scale process development.
• Demonstrated commitment to ethical scientific practice and continuous professional development.

Preferred Skills & Attributes:

• Experience with antimicrobial surface testing (EPA, FDA, USDA, cosmetics, pharmaceutical), microbial testing (bacterial, viral, fungal, biofilms), or advanced microscopy techniques.
• Familiarity with regulatory pathways for antimicrobial products (e.g., EPA, FDA, Health Canada, ECHA).
• Background in nanomaterial characterization or nanofabrication methods.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a flexible, solution-oriented mindset.
• Ability to thrive in a rapidly evolving environment with shifting priorities and new challenges.
• Demonstrated proficiency in providing proactive support to team members in a fast-paced startup or private industry environment through effective troubleshooting and collaborative problem-solving to meet customer demand.
• Collaborate with colleagues to resolve technical and operational challenges, fostering a supportive team environment in a company.
• Passion for innovation, sustainability, and public health impact.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work on pioneering antimicrobial nanotechnologies with real-world impact.
• A collaborative, mission-driven team culture where your expertise will shape both products and company direction.
• Competitive salary and benefits package tailored to the startup environment.
• Professional growth and learning opportunities in both microbiology and advanced manufacturing sectors.

How to Apply

• If you are a driven microbiologist with a passion for quality, innovation, and making a difference, we invite you to send your resume, a detailed cover letter, and references to our hiring team. Please highlight relevant experience in microbiology and QA, your exposure to nanotechnology or advanced materials, and why you are excited to join our startup.
• We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team, and we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.
• Join us on the frontier of antimicrobial nanotechnology—where your scientific rigor and quality mindset will safeguard the future.