Research Associate - Downstream Processing (f/m/x)

Role Overview

We are looking for a motivated Research Associate/ Laboratory Assistant/ Technical Assistant to support downstream process development activities. The role focuses on hands-on execution of lab-scale protein purification experiments, analytical assays, and routine laboratory operations in a collaborative R&D environment.

This role is based onsite in Frankfurt.

About Formo

At Formo, we’re rebuilding dairy to help create a just and resilient food system. Using precision fermentation, we produce real, bio-identical milk proteins, starting with casein.

Instead of animals, we harness cutting-edge biotechnology to create a new generation of dairy products that are indulgent, sustainable, and scalable. Our work sits at the intersection of molecular biology, food science, and industrial innovation, bringing together science and craftsmanship to redefine what dairy can be.

Formo is a venture-backed, fast-growing company with an international team of highly skilled entrepreneurs, scientists, and operators. United by a passion for challenging the status quo, we’re building the future of food - where animal-free is hedonistic, cheese is deliciously high-tech, and anyone, anywhere can enjoy dairy without compromise.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute lab-scale downstream processing and protein purification experiments.

• Perform quantitative and qualitative analytical assays to support process development and optimization.

• Accurately document experimental work and maintain well-organized laboratory records.

• Support troubleshooting of experiments and contribute to the optimization of laboratory techniques and workflows.

• Perform routine laboratory maintenance tasks, including cleaning, organizing equipment, and maintaining workspaces.
  
  

About You

• Completed training as a technical assistant (e.g., BTA or equivalent) or a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.

• Prior hands-on experience working in a laboratory environment.

• Solid knowledge of common biotechnological techniques and standard laboratory methods (e.g., SDS-PAGE, Bradford assay, LAL assay, colorimetric assays, reagent preparation).

• Experience in downstream processing and protein purification is an advantage.

• Fluent English, both written and spoken.

• Strong attention to detail, ability to learn quickly, and contribute proactively to team-based problem solving.
  
  

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 cheese 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

If you’re excited by the idea of sending cows on an endless vacation, applying world-class science and business thinking to a global challenge, and building the future of food from the inside - you’ll love it at Formo.

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.