LactoThera, a biotechnology spin-off of the University of Bologna, is seeking a Research Scientist to join its R&D; team in Bologna, Italy.
LactoThera is developing a novel oral platform for the systemic delivery of therapeutic proteins, based on engineered food-grade bacteria acting as “living protein factories” that produce and release therapeutic proteins directly within the body.
The successful candidate will contribute to the development and optimization of LactoThera’s proprietary microbial platform, working on engineered bacterial strains for the production and secretion of recombinant proteins and their molecular and functional characterization.
Key activities will include:
bacterial culture, manipulation and characterization;
molecular cloning and genetic engineering of bacterial strains;
development and optimization of recombinant protein expression and secretion systems;
characterization of recombinant proteins;
molecular biology, microbiological and biochemical assays;
contribution to the development and validation of new therapeutic applications of the platform.




We are particularly interested in candidates with hands-on experience in microbiology, molecular biology, microbial biotechnology or synthetic biology. Previous experience with lactic acid bacteria, probiotics, engineered microbial systems or recombinant protein production would be a strong asset.
Additional expertise in mammalian cell culture, cell biology, microscopy, Western blotting or in vivo experimental models would be highly valued but is not essential.
Candidates with a PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology or related disciplines and previous research experience are preferred. Applications from highly motivated candidates with a relevant Master's degree and strong hands-on laboratory experience will also be considered.
We are looking for a motivated, independent and collaborative scientist interested in joining an early-stage biotech company and contributing directly to t

📌 Research Scientist – Microbial Biotechnology (Bologna)
🏢 LactoThera
📍 Bologna