This is an exciting opportunity to join an early-stage biotech venture working at the forefront of yeast fermentation. As a Research Intern, you will support ongoing R&D efforts in strain engineering and bioprocess development to enable the production of innovative lipid ingredients via precision fermentation.
You will work closely with the CTO, Senior Strain Engineer, and broader technical team, gaining hands-on experience in genetic engineering, microbial cultivation, and experimental design in a fast-paced startup environment.
Job Description:
- Support routine laboratory operations, including keeping well-organized experimental records and preparation and maintenance of strains, reagents, and consumables
- Execute day-to-day experimentation, including molecular biology workflows and strain screening
- Assist in the design, construction, and testing of engineered microbial (yeast) strains
- Support lipid and fatty acid characterization through analytical assays
- Contribute to ongoing strain engineering and fermentation optimization projects
Ideal Qualifications:
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related field
- Basic laboratory experience in molecular biology, microbiology, or biochemical engineering
- Familiarity with yeast systems or microbial fermentation is a plus
- Exposure to genetic engineering techniques (e.g.,cloning, transformation, CRISPR) is advantageous
- Singaporean and Singapore PR applicants only
Ideal Skills and Attributes:
- Strong interest in strain engineering, synthetic biology, and industrial biotechnology
- Good foundational knowledge in biochemistry and microbial metabolism
- Detail-oriented with good record-keeping and organizational skills
- Eagerness to learn, take initiative, and work in a fast-paced research environment
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
Location: The position is based out of Singapore. Singaporean and Singapore PR applicants only.
Application: Please send your resume and a cover letter outlining why you’d be interested in this position to shen@terraoleo.com with email subject "Research Intern 2026 - [Your Name]." Compensation will be commensurate with similar research internship roles.
About Terra Oleo:
Terra Oleo is a Singapore-based biotech venture harnessing microbial fermentation to develop sustainable alternatives to conventionally palm oil–derived ingredients and cocoa butter, with the goal of decarbonizing and advancing industries such as personal care, home care, food, and pharmaceuticals.
