Research Scientist-Analytical Chemistry

Company Overview

Would you like to be part of a leading-edge company that manufactures sustainable bio-products that positively impact human health and the environment?

At Mara Renewables Corporation (Mara), we believe there has never been a more critical need to evolve the food system using the power of science and nature to build a more sustainable and healthier world.  We deliver premium, fish-free omega-3 from microalgae for health-conscious businesses seeking sustainable solutions.  Our products promote healthier living while preserving marine ecosystems, combined with cutting-edge research, commitment to accessibility and enjoyable consumption for all.

Mara has grown significantly in the past two years and expects continued expansion going forward. Our success is no accident. It is driven by a world-class research and development team that innovates and develops patented technologies, as well as our ability to lead scale-up capabilities and provide superior product quality. Our highly collaborative team spans Canada and the UK, with headquarters in Dartmouth, NS.

The Position

We are looking for a Research Scientist-Analytical Chemistry to join our innovation team. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work together with a team of forward-thinking innovators and business leaders as we build the platform for Mara’s continued growth and success.

Job Responsibilities

The key responsibilities of the role include but are not limited to:

· Lead the transfer of analytical methods to external analytical labs and manufacturing facilities, ensuring alignment and reproducibility across laboratories

· Perform routine and non-routine analysis of oil and biomass samples, including sample preparation, classical wet chemistry techniques (e.g., titration, UV-vis), and instrumental analysis (e.g., GC/FID)

·  Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot gas chromatography (GC) instrumentation, including software and hardware

·  Analyze and interpret data, preparing detailed and accurate reports for internal and external stakeholders

· Effectively communicate complex analytical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences, including external labs, quality and regulatory team, sales team etc

· Work with third-party analytical chemistry experts to align methods and ensure consistent, reproducible results

· Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) and analytical method transfer protocols

· Stay current with advancements in lipid analysis and analytical chemistry to enhance the company’s capabilities

· Assist in setting up and maintaining analytical laboratories, including GC installation and optimization

· Support a safe, organized, and efficient work environment, adhering to GLP/GMP requirements and regulatory guidelines

Required Skills & Experience

· Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related field

· Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of gas chromatography (e.g., GC/FID)

· Proficiency in wet chemistry techniques (e.g., titration, UV-vis, sample preparation)

· Extensive experience with GC instrumentation, including troubleshooting, method development, and optimization

· Familiarity with technology transfer processes and documentation

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex analytical concepts to diverse audiences

· Ability to travel 15–25 workdays per year

· Experience in the safe handling of chemical and biological waste

Desired skills and experience

· Hands-on experience working with oil and lipid samples

· Experience with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIR)

· Proficiency in High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), including troubleshooting and method development

· Strong understanding of GLP/GMP requirements and regulatory guidelines for analytical testing

· Demonstrated experience collaborating with customers and third-party labs to align methods and ensure reproducible results

What We Offer

Mara is proud to offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including but not limited to:

·       Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plan

·       Employee & Family Assistance Program

·       RRSP matching program

·       Health Spending Account

·       Physical Wellness Reimbursement plan

·       Hybrid work environment

·       Paid time-off

·       Opportunities for job related training and professional development

At Mara we value diversity, equity, and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including persons who identify as racially visible, Indigenous, persons with disabilities, women in underrepresented roles and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Mara supports candidates and employees with access and accommodation needs.