Senior Scientist, Orbital Biotechnology & Lab Development

Research & Development
Written By Bruno Santos

Location: USA (flexible within major biotech hubs)

Reports to: Director of R&D / CEO

Type: Full time 

Eligibility: U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident (required for federal grant eligibility) 

Role Overview

We are seeking an entrepreneurial Senior Scientist with a strong background in space biology, lab automation, and high-throughput screening. This role is pivotal in setting up and scaling Exobiosphere's U.S. R&D facility, leading advanced biotech research, applying for grants, and managing early-stage laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will bring deep scientific expertise and leadership, laying the foundation for future team growth and orbital experimentation.

Responsibilities

Scientific Leadership & Lab Development

  • Design and establish a U.S.-based wet lab for orbital assay development.

  • Implement and validate high-throughput and high-content methodologies (e.g., 3D cell models, robotics, liquid handling, imaging platforms).

  • Build lab infrastructure to support BSL2 experiments, assay development for space, and automation pipelines.

Grant Writing & Scientific Strategy

  • Lead the preparation and submission of proposals to agencies such as NASA, NIH, DoD, and BARDA.

  • Represent Exobiosphere during proposal reviews, site visits, and stakeholder discussions.

  • Develop academic-industry consortia and collaborative projects for joint funding opportunities.

Experimental Design & Execution

  • Translate terrestrial workflows into robust space-compatible assay protocols.

  • Plan and oversee microgravity-compatible studies using 3D organoids, iPSC-derived models, CRISPR libraries, and multiplexed readouts.

  • Validate methods to ensure reproducibility, QC standards, and data integrity.

Data Analysis & Bioinformatics Integration

  • Work with engineers and data scientists to manage image analysis, sequencing pipelines, and ML-based screening.

  • Ensure delivery of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data sets.

Compliance & Documentation

  • Prepare IRB packages, biosafety submissions, and support NASA flight safety reviews.

  • Maintain full regulatory compliance with ITAR, EAR, CDC DSAT, and institutional safety protocols.

Mentorship & Collaboration

  • Mentor junior scientists and collaborate across international teams in Luxembourg, the U.S., and beyond.

Contribute to scientific publications and external communications.

Requirements

  • PhD in Space Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or related field.

  • 5+ years postdoctoral or industry experience in translational research or lab automation.

  • Demonstrated success in designing and running HTS/HCI campaigns.

  • Track record of grant writing and scientific project leadership.

  • Experience setting up or managing a biotech lab.

  • Strong communication, organization, and team-building skills.

  • Eligible to work and apply for grants in the U.S.

Prefered Extras

  • Previous involvement in spaceflight experiments (parabolic, ISS, or commercial platforms).

  • Experience with pre-clinical drug development.

  • Familiarity with machine learning, high-content imaging, or multi-omics data integration.

join out team!

Why EXOBIOSPHERE? 

Innovative Environment: Join a forward-thinking team where your organizational skills and expertise will support groundbreaking discoveries. We foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning. 

Strategic Location: Work at the House of BioHealth in Luxembourg, a premier biotech hub offering state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant community of like-minded professionals. 

Professional Growth: We are committed to your career development, providing ample opportunities for advancement and professional growth in the exciting field of space-based drug discovery. 

Competitive Packages: We offer attractive compensation packages, including benefits and incentives, designed to reward your hard work and dedication. 

Collaborative Culture: Be part of a supportive and collaborative team that values diverse perspectives and works together to achieve ambitious goals. 

Global Impact: Contribute to pioneering research that has the potential to transform healthcare and improve lives worldwide. 

This is an unparalleled opportunity to work at the exciting intersection of space and health, where your contributions will have a global impact.  We seek passionate and driven individuals who are eager to work hard and be part of our visionary team.  We offer competitive packages and a dynamic, collaborative environment at the House of BioHealth in Luxembourg.   

Apply Now and Launch Your Career into Space with EXOBIOSPHERE!

Bruno Santos