Senior Analytical Chemist
Provectus Algae
Provectus uses Precision Photosynthesis® to accelerate nature in a proprietary biomanufacturing platform, producing some of the world’s most valuable specialty ingredients. Our technology underpins the delivery of Surf’N’Turf®, a world-first livestock feed additive that reduces methane emissions by up to 95% while improving farm yields.
Headquartered in Noosa, Australia, our team has built a scalable and sustainable production platform. We are now expanding global operations, bringing Surf’N’Turf® to market, and advancing our pipeline of algae-derived products to serve agriculture, consumer, and therapeutic markets.
The Role
Provectus Algae is seeking a Senior Analytical Chemist with deep expertise in the characterisation and quantification of volatile halogenated compounds, including bromoform and related species. This role will lead analytical method development,validation and ongoing product Quality Control to support the commercial delivery of Surf’N’Turf® and future algae-derived bioactive products.
The successful candidate will combine advanced technical capability in gas chromatography and volatile compound analytics with leadership in method development, laboratory building, and team mentorship. They will play a pivotal role in ensuring the accuracy, reproducibility, and scalability of analytical data that underpins product quality and innovation across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design, development, and validation of advanced analytical methods for volatile halogenated compounds such as bromoform and dibromochloromethane across a range of matrices, including algal biomass and formulated products.
- Establish and optimise sample preparation and extraction methodologies for volatile compound recovery and quantification, including headspace, purge-and-trap, and solid-phase microextraction (SPME) techniques.
- Oversee all GC and GC-MS analytical operations, including method performance verification, calibration protocols, and data integrity standards.
- Design and execute long-term stability studies on volatile bioactives under varying formulation, storage, and processing conditions to inform product development and shelf-life strategies.
- Provide expert analytical interpretation and strategic input to cross-functional teams in synthetic biology, process development, and product formulation.
- Lead the implementation of quality control systems, ensuring analytical data meets regulatory and internal validation standards (GLP, ISO 17025, or equivalent).
- Mentor and supervise junior chemists and technicians, fostering technical development, scientific rigor, and continuous improvement in laboratory practices.
- Contribute to analytical strategy planning, including technology evaluation, equipment acquisition, and expansion of analytical capability for future product pipelines.
- Represent analytical function in internal reviews and external audits, communicating technical outcomes to both scientific and non-technical audiences.
- Ensure proactive maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimisation of analytical instrumentation to maximise laboratory efficiency and reliability.
Qualifications and Experience
- Qualification in Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
- Extensive practical experience in GC and GC-MS for volatile compound analysis, including method development and validation for trace halogenated species.
- Proven expertise in handling, stabilising, and quantifying volatile organic and halogenated compounds from complex biological or environmental matrices.
- Demonstrated ability to lead analytical method development programs from concept to routine application in a regulated or commercially scaled environment.
- Strong foundation in organic and physical chemistry, including volatility, partitioning behaviour, and degradation kinetics.
- Experience managing analytical teams or acting as technical lead for instrumentation and method development.
- Familiarity with data management and reporting systems, including LIMS and analytical data processing software.
- Proven ability to translate complex analytical findings into actionable insights that inform production optimisation, formulation design, and regulatory submissions.
- Strong organisational and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
Opportunities we offer:
- Work life balance to allow the opportunity to enjoy the location
- The opportunity to work in a company on the forefront of sustainable products for the future
We are a progressive, creative and imaginative team that firmly believes in diversity and equal opportunity as we build a world-leading organisation. We want the right people on the bus who strive to learn, aim for excellence and take pride in their achievements.