Biology Team Lead Researcher

At ASPIRE we are pioneers in the field of precision insect farming, optimizing the growth and harvesting of an underutilized natural resource in order to meet global demand for sustainable ingredients and materials. Our vision is A WORLD TRANSFORMED BY INSECT TECHNOLOGY.

BIOLOGY TEAM LEAD RESEARCHER

The Biology Lead Researcher oversees the lab and research activities required at Aspire, which ultimately focuses on the development and execution of testing and methodologies that optimize Aspire’s farming and production.  The Lead supervises, supports and trains staff, monitors progress towards goals, develops new research methodologies, and participates in setting R&D strategy to ensure high-level company objectives are achieved.  

This role is located on-site in London, Ontario and reports to the Chief Operating Officer.

SHIFT STRUCTURE

This role will primarily work Monday to Friday, day shift, however work outside of standard working hours is required as needed, in order to effectively support the location's 24/7 operation. 

HOW YOU WILL MAKE CONTRIBUTIONS THAT MATTER

• Promote a Health and Safety, Food Safety and GMP Culture by adhering to company standards at all times. 

• Working with leadership stakeholders to scout new R&D opportunities, developing relationships with industry and understanding priority issues in the insects for food and feed sector.

• Cultivating support and investment for research with producers and producer groups, product suppliers, infrastructure suppliers, municipalities and other potential partners.

• Managing a research and innovation program with multi-disciplinary areas of focus.

• Designing and managing field trials.

• Coordinate contracted third party breeding and research.

• Draft research proposals for internal KPI’s and possible external funding.

• Monitoring progress towards goals and course correcting as required to ensure objectives are met.

• Developing and monitoring team OKRs and KPIs.

• Continuously exploring, developing, optimizing, testing, and implementing new methodologies and processes.

• Collaborating with other team leads and the executive to ensure cross-functional alignment on work plans, strategies and timelines.

• Conducting “hands on” bench work whenever needed to maximize team capacity, optimize methodologies and aggressively progress R&D outcomes.

• Other related duties and required or assigned.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TABLE

• PhD in entomology, biochemistry, biology, molecular/cell biology, horticulture, plant sciences, or genetics with 3-5 years of relevant industry experience.

• Experience managing teams and junior scientists.

• Ability to work independently in a highly dynamic and fast-paced environment to contribute to multiple projects.

• Demonstrated leadership experience with cross-functional teams.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to coordinate relationships.

• Applied knowledge of leadership, management and team motivation principles and practices with demonstrated experience in managing people.

• Familiarity and experience with project management principles, processes and tools.

• Familiarity with intellectual property (IP) protection and management.

• Sound working knowledge of budgeting, business development and corporate planning.

GET EXCITED ABOUT ASPIRE

• Aspire has assembled the largest body of research on cricket biology and production in the world.

• We are pioneering the industry by customizing, synthesizing and integrating cutting-edge technologies, including an Advanced Automation ASRS, IoT-Enabled Data Accumulation, Artificial Intelligence and Selective Breeding and Biological Optimization processes.

• We offer a competitive compensation package that includes paid time off, medical benefits, Maternity/Parental leave top-up, STD/LTD, RRSP and Stock Option plans.

Aspire welcomes all applicants and is committed to a diverse workforce. If you require accommodation, please advise the Human Resources Department of any required accommodation needs.

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