Offer Description
Title: Technician – Algal Biorefinery
Education: BSc/MSc degree in Biotechnology, Biological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Food Engineering, or related fields
Location: GreenCoLab Headquarters, Faro, Portugal (On-Site)
Schedule: Full-time (35 hours/week)
Position Code: BG012026
Deadline: The application period will be open until the position is filled
Vacancy Purpose
GreenCoLab is opening a recruitment and selection competition for 1 (one) BSc/MSc Technician position within our Biorefinery Group.
As part of the Biorefinery team, you will support the development, optimisation and implementation of downstream processing and biorefinery strategies for microalgae and seaweed biomass. This role will involve hands-on laboratory and pilot-scale activities aimed at obtaining functional ingredients and high-value fractions for different applications, directly contributing to GreenCoLab’s ongoing research, innovation and service projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Implement and support laboratory and pilot-scale processes for the fractionation and valorisation of microalgae and seaweed biomass;
- Perform biomass pre-treatment, extraction, hydrolysis, separation, concentration, and stabilisation processes;
- Operate and maintain biorefinery equipment, ensuring its correct use, cleaning and routine monitoring;
- Prepare samples and perform or support physicochemical and compositional analyses of biomass, extracts and resulting fractions;
- Record, organise and interpret experimental data;
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to technical reports, presentations, project deliverables and standard operating procedures;
- Support the organisation of the laboratory, including equipment, consumables, samples and fraction inventories.
Candidate Profile:
- BSc/MSc degree in Biotechnology, Biological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Food Engineering, or related fields;
- Demonstrated practical experience in laboratory work and experimental procedures;
- Ability to organise and execute experimental work rigorously and independently;
- Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and a responsible approach to laboratory activities;
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team;
- Fluency in English and good written communication skills.
Preferred / Nice-to-Have Requirements:
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- Experience in downstream processing, bioprocessing, extraction or biorefinery processes;
- Experience working with microalgae, seaweed or other biological biomass;
- Experience with techniques such as high-pressure homogenisation, centrifugation, enzymatic hydrolysis, membrane filtration, freeze-drying or spray-drying;
- Experience in the physicochemical characterisation of biomass, extracts or functional ingredients;
- Strong motivation, proactivity, autonomy and willingness to learn and propose new approaches;
- Good organisational skills and ability to manage multiple activities and deadlines simultaneously.
Why Join the GreenCoLab Team?
At GreenCoLab, we are driven by a shared mission: joining the pieces for a sustainable future through algal biotechnology and the blue economy. Located at the Green Biotech Hub in Faro (Algarve, Portugal), we bring together diverse talents – researchers, administrative experts, operational managers, and facility professionals – into one united team, bathed in 300+ days of sunshine.
No matter your role, your work directly powers our impact. Here is what we promise you:
A Culture Where Every Role Matters
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One Unified Team: We promote a flat and approachable culture built on mutual respect. Whether you work at a desk, in a laboratory, in design, or across our facilities, your contribution is equally valued and celebrated.
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A Safe & Supportive Environment: We encourage initiative, open communication, and learning. We embrace a Safe Error Culture where transparent problem-solving is a team effort.
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Collaborative Workspace: You will work in open-space facilities designed for cross-disciplinary ideation, focus, and teamwork.
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International, Inclusive & Engaging Environment: Join an international, English-first workplace that values diversity, inclusion, and personal dignity, with plenty of team-bonding activities.
Benefits & Perks
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Meaningful Impact & Green Transition: Work on real-world challenges that impact the algae value chain and generate applied solutions, contributing directly to the global blue economy and climate resilience.
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Academia-Industry Crossover: Work directly with leading industrial partners and academic research institutions across Europe, gaining access to an innovation and knowledge ecosystem that is unique in the world.
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World-Class Infrastructure: Direct access to new, modern, fully equipped laboratories, offices, and pilot facilities at our campus in Faro.
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Health & Wellbeing: Access to our health insurance plan, 50% co-funded by GreenCoLab – and extendable to your family.
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Work-Life Balance: 35 hours/week, 22+ paid annual vacation days, national holidays, and flexible working arrangements where operational duties allow.
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Tools for Success: Welcome kit, dedicated work equipment (laptop), software, and tools customized to your specific role.
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Invest in Your Personal Growth & Career Development: We encourage professional training and skill-building courses, and promote opportunities to attend national and international conferences, congresses, and trade shows.
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Campus Amenities: Free and secure on-site parking at our Faro campus, a shared, fully equipped kitchen, and green relaxation areas.
…PLUS: Team-building activities, joint coffee breaks, social gatherings, knowledge-sharing sessions, a Book Club, and first-hand food prototype tasting sessions!
Career Growth Meets Algarve Quality of Life
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Work-Life Harmony in the Algarve: Live and work in the Faro region – enjoying over 300 days of sunshine a year, the breathtaking Ria Formosa natural park, world-class beaches, and a relaxed, vibrant lifestyle.
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Smooth Onboarding: Moving to the region? We offer administrative guidance (NIF, visa orientation, local setup) to help you transition smoothly.
Position Details
Starting Date: As soon as possible
Workplace: The activities will be carried out at GreenCoLAB headquarters in Faro, Portugal
Work schedule: Full-time (35 hours a week)
Application Process and Submission
- Submit your application via GreenCoLAB’s official Intake Form (HERE: www.greencolab.com/jobs).
- Mention the position code BG012026 in your submission.
- Attach an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Results: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview, though all applicants will be notified of the final outcome.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Access Policy
No candidate may be privileged, benefited, harmed or deprived of any right or exempt from any duty on the grounds, in particular, of descent, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, economic situation, social origin or condition, genetic heritage, disability, chronic illness, nationality, ethnicity, territory of origin, language, religion, political or ideological beliefs, or trade union membership.
