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IBE Professional Development Opportunities

Professional Practice Assistant or Associate Professor at Utah State University

The Department of Biological Engineering at Utah State University invites applications for a Professional Practice Assistant or Associate Professor (non-tenure track) to support the Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) Life Science Talent Workforce Initiative. This role focuses on teaching and curriculum development for the new online Master of Bioprocessing and Biomanufacturing program, fostering industry partnerships, and training students in biomanufacturing and bioprocessing skills.

Position Levels & Requirements:

  • Assistant Professor: Requires 5+ years of industry experience, technical training expertise in biological reactors (fermenters and mammalian cell culture bioreactors), Lean Six Sigma certification, and knowledge of quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and FDA regulations.

  • Associate Professor: Requires 7+ years of industry experience in a technical leadership role, experience working with industry clients, and expertise in developing biological reactor operations and processes for specific products.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and enhance curriculum aligned with industry standards and emerging trends.

  • Collaborate with industry partners to arrange guest lectures, facility tours, and internship opportunities for students.

  • Teach at least five courses per year, including lecture and lab components via USU’s online learning platforms.

    • Assistant Professors: Topics include cGMP, downstream processing, microbial fermentation, industrial biotech, and biopharma entrepreneurship.

    • Associate Professors: Topics include upstream processing, mammalian cell culture, monoclonal antibody production, vaccine manufacturing, and diagnostics manufacturing.

Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements:

  • STEM/Life Science degree (Bachelor’s or higher).

  • 5+ years (Assistant) / 7+ years (Associate) industry experience in biomanufacturing/bioprocessing.

  • Expertise in cGMP, QA/QC, and regulatory compliance.

  • Hands-on experience with microbial fermenters and mammalian cell culture bioreactors.

  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills for industry engagement.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Teaching/training experience in an industry or academic setting.

  • Familiarity with scale-up/scale-down processes.

  • Assistant Professors: Experience with Electronic Document Management Systems (EDMS), SOPs, MBRs, CAPAs.

  • Associate Professors: Knowledge of Single-Use Technologies (SUTs), Process Analytical Technology (PAT), DOE, CQAs, CPPs, and QbD.

Application Requirements:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • Contact details for at least three professional references

  • Cover letter summarizing motivation, qualifications, and career goals

  • Two-page teaching statement explaining teaching philosophy for industry-based education

For inquiries, contact:
📧 Dr. Anhong Zhou (Search Committee Chair)
✉️ [email protected]

Join us in shaping the future of bioprocessing and biomanufacturing education at Utah State University! 🚀

Click Here For More Information and to Apply!

Summer 2025 Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduates

We are excited to share a fantastic opportunity for undergraduate students interested in research and extension projects at the intersection of engineering, agriculture, and food production! The Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduates (REEU) Program at the University of Georgia is currently accepting applications for Summer 2025.

This program, funded by the USDA NIFA, provides students with hands-on research experience, mentorship from UGA faculty, and professional development opportunities in cutting-edge agricultural and food production technologies.

Program Highlights

📌 Conduct research under expert mentorship
📌 Gain skills in leadership, teamwork, and ethics
📌 Participate in career counseling and workshops
📌 Receive financial support:

  • $4,000 stipend
  • Housing & meal allowances
  • Travel support for external participants

Eligibility

✔️ Sophomore or junior in a 4-year STEM degree
✔️ GPA > 3.0
✔️ U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident

Key Dates

🗓️ Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
🗓️ Notification Date: April 15, 2025
🗓️ Program Dates: June – July 2025 (TBA)

For more details and to apply, visit: https://engineering.uga.edu/reeu

Please feel free to share this opportunity with students who may be interested. If you have any questions, reach out to [email protected].

Click Here for More Information!
Apply by March 31!

Undergraduate and Graduate Students are invited to apply to the NSF-IRES Program!

Join a Unique Research Experience on Cacao Fermentation in Costa Rica!

Are you passionate about scientific research and improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers? Take part in an exciting opportunity to combine these interests by studying cacao fermentation in the lush, tropical landscapes of Costa Rica.

Few people know that cacao must be fermented before becoming chocolate, and this process significantly influences the beans' market value. Smallholders often sell unfermented beans at lower prices, while companies that ferment the beans face challenges due to limited scientific understanding of the biochemical processes involved. This program seeks to bridge that knowledge gap and empower smallholders.

Through this interdisciplinary IRES (International Research Experiences for Students), participants will:

  • Gain in-depth scientific knowledge of cacao fermentation and processing.
  • Learn analytical and statistical techniques through hands-on field and laboratory research.
  • Collaborate with cacao farmers and chocolate manufacturers, contributing directly to maximizing the value of local cacao products.

Participants will work alongside researchers from the Universidad Nacional in Heredia, Costa Rica, as well as mentors from the University of Georgia and the University of Florida. In addition to valuable research experience, you’ll explore Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in its culture, and learn about the history of cacao.

Undergraduate and graduate students from any university are welcome to apply. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to make a difference in science and sustainability while experiencing the beauty of Costa Rica!

Please contact José Reyes De Corcuera ([email protected]) for additional information on the program and how you can participate!

Click Here for More Information!
Apply by January 13th!

The 2025 Annual IBE Conference will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah on September 12th and 13th!

The theme of this conference, “Innovation through Biological Engineering,”highlights the groundbreaking advancements and interdisciplinary approaches in our field.

Conference Program Chairs: 

Click Here for More Information!
Hotel Registration Now Open!

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