Research Associate – Protein Characterization & Functionality (all genders)

Job description

Role Overview Formo Foods is looking for a motivated, analytical Research Associate to join our Protein Analytics team in Frankfurt am Main. You'll perform and further develop analytical methods with a strong focus on the comprehensive physicochemical and functional characterization of proteins and protein powders . Your data will directly shape how we optimize our fermentation-derived proteins for food applications. You'll work closely with scientists across bioengineering, food science and fermentation technology in an interdisciplinary, dynamic environment and play a key role in the quality, functionality and performance of our innovative protein ingredients. Location: Frankfurt am Main . About Formo The world needs more protein than ever - not just protein that's better for the planet, but protein that performs better. We stand at the start of that shift, and we intend to lead it through precision fermentation. Formo is the biotech protein engine for food and nutrition, starting with enhanced casein. Casein is our first hero ingredient, and it's already winning on its own merits: better functionality than animal-based casein. Sustainable, and simply better protein. And it's only the start. We're building the engine behind it: the data, the science, the speed to keep producing the next generation of high-performance proteins. We partner with the world's leading food and nutrition manufacturers to bring these ingredients to market at scale. From our home base in Frankfurt am Main, a team of entrepreneurs, scientists, and operators drawn from across the globe is doing the work that decides what food is made of next. Our vision? Making the cow optional. Our common thread? A passion for challenging the status quo and transforming the food and nutrition industry. Join us in the start of the performance era of food! Key Responsibilities Analytical Testing & Method Development Execute and optimize a broad range of physicochemical and functional tests for protein powders, including color, dispersibility, moisture, bulk density, protein solubility, viscosity, foaming capacity & stability, and emulsification capacity & stability (method development and routine analysis) Contribute to method optimization and support ongoing R&D projects in close collaboration with scientists Documentation & Quality Thoroughly document results, evaluate data and report findings to the team Instrument Management Operate, maintain, calibrate and troubleshoot analytical instruments About You Education & Experience Master's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Analytical Chemistry or a related field Solid knowledge and practical laboratory experience in food chemistry or food technology is highly desirable, particularly in the analytical and functional characterization of proteins Technical & Functional Skills Good understanding of analytical method development and validation Experience with HPLC-UV analysis, sensory evaluation/aroma analysis (e.g. GC-MS) and rheology/texture optimization is a plus Experience in plant-based/alternative protein product development is a plus Excellent documentation and data evaluation skills Very good English skills; German is a plus Mindset Careful, structured and reliable working style, with high motivation and scientific curiosity to learn new techniques Collaboration & Communication Team-oriented mindset with good communication skills Why you’ll love it here Ready to shake things up? At Formo, you don’t just trade your labor for compensation - you join a mission. One powered by frontier science, real-world impact, and a team of brilliant, driven people who care deeply about what they’re building. You’ll work side by side with interdisciplinary experts across highly skilled entrepreneurs, scientists, and operators. We believe the best ideas emerge when diverse perspectives collide, and when people are trusted with responsibility, autonomy, and meaningful challenges. We’re building something ambitious, and we take the work seriously - but not ourselves. Expect close collaboration, fast learning and innovation, and a culture that celebrates progress (often with tastings 🧀). What we offer: Help reinvent one of the world’s most iconic food categories Participate in employee equity and build long-term ownership in what we’re creating Benefit from regular team off-sites, monthly perks like discounted public transport passes and fitness memberships Invest in your growth with a dedicated annual development budget for learning, training, and conferences Enjoy 28 days of paid vacation, and an additional day after 3 and 4 years tenure Make an impact on the environment and society with 1 (fully paid) Team Impact Day Work in an innovative office and lab environment with access to cutting-edge food and biotech infrastructure Connect over regular team lunches , healthy and not so healthy snacks and drinks and shared moments that bring the team together Disclaimer Formo is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, genetic information, color, physical or mental disability, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, medical condition, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.