Data Scientist with Chemical Engineering background

SQALE is looking for a full-time Data Scientist with Chemical Engineering background to spearhead the companies development and implementation of cutting edge bioreactor soft sensors and hybrid AI-mechanistic models for model predictive bioprocess control & optimization.

ABOUT SQALE

SQALE’s vision is to unlock the full potential of biomanufacturing by optimizing bioreactor efficiency and enhancing real-time process control. Leveraging a powerful combination of hybrid AI and mechanistic models, driven by comprehensive sensor data and a model predictive control framework, SQALE achieves intelligent, adaptive process optimization.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Traditional agriculture currently contributes over 9 million tons CO₂e annually. Novel BioSolutions, such as alternative proteins and other fermentation-based agri and food ingredients, could reduce emissions by at least 4.3 million tons CO₂e per year in 2030. Yet, 90% of these solutions never scale past the lab due to high CAPEX, inefficient scaling, inefficient bioreactor, regulatory hurdles, and feedstock supply challenges. Thus, there currently is a huge untapped potential for sustainable bioproducts that are not yet able to compete in the market on price.

SQALE’s TECHNOLOGY

SQALE offers bioprocess optimization as a service for food innovators and other fermentation companies. Our solution boosts bioreactor efficiency and process control through three core elements.

1)      BIOREACTOR MEASUREMENTS: SQALE’s eNose predicts biomass concentration in real-time, as a soft sensor and supervisor to SQALE’s AI Models.

2)      AI MODELS & MPC: SQALE’s AI models harness the eNose and clients’ sensor data in real-time in a model predictive control framework (MPC) for driving intelligent and adaptive process optimization.

3)      CONTROL INTEGRATION: SQALE’s solution integrates with existing bioreactors, sensors and control systems.

BUSINESS MODEL & MARKET
We operate on a subscription basis, offering a mix of novel monitoring hardware, state-of-the-art AI models and edge-computing solutions to bioreactor suppliers and food ingredient producers. The global BioSolutions market exceeded EUR 300bn in 2024 and will reach EUR 600bn by 2030 (CAGR ~10%). Our initial focus is Europe’s alternative protein market (EUR 7bn in 2024, 15% CAGR).

TODAY’s ORGANIZATION & FUTURE OUTLOOK

Our team comprises 3 full-time and 2 part-time employees. CEO Mads, with a Nanoscience background and experience as founder/CTO at Zymoscope, leads the company alongside Jascha Jäger (Head of Finance & Business Development) and process engineer Georgios Balamotis (dual master degrees from DTU and Athens). Supported by board members Christopher Savoie (30+ years as CEO, Inventor of Apple’s Siri) and Seyed Soheil Mansouri (bioprocess engineering expert, DTU Associate Professor), SQALE is financed by the Venture Lab program (BioInnovation Institute, Novo Nordisk Foundation) and soft funding from the EU and Innovation Fund Denmark.

In 2025 & 2026 , we anticipate prototype pilots with DTU and industrial client validation projects in northern Europe split over 3 phases.

PHASE 1: Biomass concentration soft sensor validation

PHASE 2: Control system feedback validation

PHASE 3: Advanced AI-powered process optimization

In order to facilitate the above product development & client project validation work, SQALE is looking to add a highly skilled and motivated Data Scientist with Chemical Engineering background to our ambitious team.

THE ROLE

• Full-time
• Located at SQALE’s office at SYMBION Østerbro
• Reporting to the CEO
• Travel to client pilot projects in Denmark & Northern Europe may be required

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Development of biomass concentration & growth rate soft sensor for fermentation & photosynthesis processes
• Development of a soft sensor for CO2 dissolved in the liquid phase of bioreactors
• Validation of a framework for the development of hybrid AI mechanistic models for clients’ bioprocesses
• Development of AI mechanistic models for client bioprocesses.
• Support in the set up of SQALE’s technology components with clients’ existing process control infrastructure
• Development of a model predictive control framework for pilot & client projects.
• Support in the writing of grant applications together with SQALE’s team and network.

WHAT WE EXPECT FROM A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

• A relevant master degree with excellent results
• A relevant PhD, post doc positions and any related academic track record are a plus
• Experience working for or with start ups is a plus
• Highly motivated and self-driven personality with the ability of managing own time and priorities to the benefit of the company.
• Ability to thrive in working outside a standard 9-5 work culture in a hybrid work setting with flexible work hours.
• Great team player with the ability to collaborate with partners and personalities from diverse professional & personal backgrounds.