Do you want to make a delicious difference?

As a fast-growing, mission-driven startup committed to revolutionise the food industry, we're assembling a dynamic A-Team! As our Strain Development Intern, you will support the screening of improved production organisms and fermentation process conditions.

• Reporting to: Kevin Schmitz
• Type: Mandatory Full-Time Internship 
• Location: Planegg (Onsite)
• Department: R&D

About Planet A Foods

We couldn’t ignore the problem. The chocolate industry has long contributed to environmental harm and human exploitation. We are unwilling to stand by this, as we believe in protecting our planet and the people that create the foods we love… So we created the world’s first 100% cocoa-free chocolate alternative, ChoViva, which delivers a rich, roasted flavor with a solid snap, smooth melt, and subtle sweetness - all while being climate-friendly! 

And our next product disruption is already in the pipeline: ChoViva Butter, a yeast-derived and
substantially more sustainable replacement for cocoa butter produced via precision fermentation. To accelerate this endeavour, we are looking for a motivated Intern in our Strain Development Department who supports us in screening of improved production organisms and fermentation process conditions. During this internship, you will work closely with our experienced research and development team to support and advance strain engineering projects. You will have the opportunity to learn and apply state-of-the-art fermentation methods, biochemical assays, and molecular techniques to modify and enhance yeast strains for improved productivity and product quality.

A Taste of What to Expect

• Conduct cultivation experiments independently to assess different strain versions regarding growth and performance
• Apply different biochemical, photometric and gravimetric assays to assess strain KPIs such as productivity, yield and lipid composition
• Collect and analyse experimental data, and contribute to the interpretation and presentation of results
• Collaborate with our research team to optimise strain performance at the intersection of strain engineering and Upstream Processing (USP).
• Support in molecular cloning techniques, such as PCR, DNA purification, and plasmid assembly
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, prepare reports, and present findings to the team
• Contribute to a clean and safe laboratory working environment.

The Perfect Recipe of Skills & Experience

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or - preferably - a Master's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry or a related field

• Strong interest in strain engineering, strain characterisation and fermentation

• Experience with microbial cultivations is a must (sterile working and sampling skills, biochemical/gravimetric/photometric assays, media and solution preparation). Experience with basic molecular biology techniques is an advantage (PCR)

• Strong attention to detail, structured working style, and adherence to experimental protocols.

• Team-oriented, curious, and eager to go beyond procedures by interpreting and explaining scientific observations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with proficiency in English (written and verbal).

Room for More Dessert?

VALUES

At Planet A Foods we are deeply committed to our values. We believe in the power of:

• Fellowship: where a shared vision can only be realized through teamwork, and we strive to enable each other’s success. 
• On Discovery: we thrive on encouraging curiosity and innovation to create extraordinary solutions for a better world. 
• Creating Impact: through science and passion, we make meaningful progress on our journey. 
• Just Do It: we have a take-action philosophy, favoring decisive steps over endless discussions. 

Moreover, joining our flat-hierarchy team means you will benefit from a competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a supportive work environment where communication is direct and collaboration is key.

BENEFITS

• Delicious, healthy lunches, and constant access to snacks and drinks to keep you energised throughout the day.
• A personalised MacBook Pro to support your work.
• Sensory Experiences: as we are making chocolate, we regularly have chocolate tastings to evaluate the taste, colour, and aroma of existing and future recipes, so you can actively contribute to our innovations! 
• Employees with cars are welcome to use designated parking spaces.
• Events to build and strengthen our team.
• Chocolate. Every. Single. Day. Do we even need to explain this?

Make an Impact and Apply Now!

As an equal-opportunity employer, we are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, starting from evaluating all applications fairly. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and abilities to apply. 

Join us on our journey to make an impact on the planet through sustainable food. Apply now and help shape the future of food!