Process Modeling and Optimization Specialist

Ark Biotech is powering the most important infrastructure buildout of this generation to transform how people consume protein. Ark is a B2B company engineering and designing next-generation production systems for the cultivated meat industry. We are a venture-backed startup driven by a desire to create a better food system for the planet and its inhabitants. At Ark, you will have the opportunity to solve difficult problems that matter and apply cutting-edge engineering and science in an environment that rewards creativity and visionary approaches. 

About the role

At Ark, we are creating the first intelligent bioreactor. Leveraging Industry 4.0, we are developing a new operating system for biomanufacturing where decisions are made automatically, enabled by real-time data from advanced sensors and a first-of-its-kind digital twin. ArkOS will dramatically improve yield through enabling optimal decision-making, so that cultivated meat companies can produce more, for less.

We are looking for a Process Modeling and Optimization Specialist with a solid background in statistics, experience with real-time optimization, and expertise in data-driven modeling. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing and deploying fit-for-purpose models for control and optimization of cell culture processes. 

In this role, you will develop and deploy computational models for ArkOS spanning (1) advanced real-time data capture (e.g., real-time state estimation based on spectroscopy data), (2) operational digital-twin simulations (e.g., enabling robust hybrids models of cell growth and other critical parameters), (3) model-based control (e.g., deploying supervisory control algorithm for batch optimization). 

The role of the Process Modeling and Optimization Specialist is an excellent opportunity for a highly-entrepreneurial, hard-working, self-motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced, creative environment. The position entails working with a multidisciplinary team as part of a new product development cycle, which includes developing concepts and taking them from initial design and prototyping through commercialization.

• Full-time, exempt
• Greater Boston area 
• Benefits include health, dental, and vision coverage, holiday and vacation time, 401k matching, stock options, and opportunity for career advancement as the company grows

• Prototype and improve a robust data pipeline for processing and analyzing large volumes of data
• Develop reliable model-based control algorithms and soft-sensors
• Develop and deploy robust algorithms for optimization of cell culture processes
• Create robust and adaptive control algorithms for advanced manufacturing systems for cultivated meat
• Utilize mechanistic modeling, data analytics, and optimal design control techniques to improve manufacturing processes
• Work with the automation and data teams to integrate models that improve yield and process robustness
• Collaborate with clients and partners to translate their process requirements into concrete optimization problems

• MS or Ph.D. in chemical engineering, data-science, operations research, applied mathematics, statistics, or other relevant fields
• Ph.D. or 2 years of direct experience in numerical simulation of dynamic systems
• Experience in statistical modeling and parameter estimation
• Expertise in programming and solving complex differential equations 
• End-to-end skills in simulation planning, execution, data analysis, and documentation
• Understanding unit operations and fundamental engineering principles of mass transfer, heat transfer, and reaction kinetics is a plus

Ark Biotech is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status.