Engineer to join Our Expert Team in Biotechnology Upstream Development

Are you motivated by hands‑on lab work and scientific problem‑solving? At Xellia Pharmaceuticals we produce life-saving antibiotics. Right now we are looking for an Engineer working within strain Development in Biotechnology Upstream Development, Oslo. Here you will join a team of 14 scientists and engineers working on strain development, fermentation, scale‑up, and technology transfer to Xellia’s production sites.

We collaborate closely in cross‑functional project teams in a highly engaged and supportive environment.

“We work closely together and lean on each other’s expertise - that’s how we get things done as a team.” Says hiring manager Einar Moen

You will be part of an international R&D community spanning Oslo, Copenhagen, and Budapest, with ~45 employees in API R&D. The Oslo site includes three departments: Biotechnology Upstream Development, Biotechnology Chemistry and Downstream Development and Analytical Development with around 30 colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Development of production strains through mutagenesis and systematic mutant screening

• Establishing and maintaining Master and Working Cell Banks according to GMP standards

• Identification, activity testing, and cultivation of microorganisms

• Analyses of fermentation samples using HPLC

• Planning, executing, and documenting laboratory experiments with high accuracy and consistency

• Maintaining, calibrating, and troubleshooting laboratory equipment

• Ensuring compliance with HSE, Quality, and GMP requirements

• Flexibility: Some work outside normal hours will be required

Driven by scientific curiosity

At Xellia, every colleague counts. You’ll be part of a friendly and close-knit environment where people support each other and take pride in their work. We are driven by curiosity and a shared commitment to solving complex scientific challenges together.

Qualifications

• BSc in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related field

• Solid experience with sterile techniques, microbial handling, and cell cultivation

• Experience working with microorganisms

• Knowledge of microbial fermentation processes and antibiotic production is an advantage

• Strong attention to detail and efficient work habits

• Basic understanding of GMP principles

• Personal qualities: Motivated, structured, proactive, and a strong team player

• Good communication skills in a Scandinavian language and English

Xellia offers

• A position in an international, highly skilled R&D environment

• The opportunity to contribute directly to the development of life saving antibiotics

• Modern laboratory facilities located at Ullern in Oslo

We evaluate applications on an ongoing basis, so don’t hesitate to apply early.

Final deadline: April 15th.

For further information, please contact:

Senior Manager Einar Moen, +47 916 02 096

Principal Scientist II Harald Bredholt, +47 995 30 588

Xellia Pharmaceuticals is the global leader in fermentation-based, non-beta-lactam anti-infectives, supplying Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and Finished Dosage Forms (FDFs) to over 500 pharmaceutical companies across 80 countries.

Recognized by the World Health Organization and the European Union for our critical medicines, we play a vital role in combating severe infections and antimicrobial resistance. Headquartered in Denmark, we operate manufacturing sites in Copenhagen, Denmark; Budapest, Hungary; and Taizhou, China, with R&D and commercial operations in seven additional locations globally. As the only European manufacturer of several key anti-infectives and with a heritage spanning over 120 years, we are driven by purpose and progress.

With more than 1100 employees, our impact starts from within. We offer a workplace where ideas, curiosity, and initiative thrive, and where your role evolves with your ambition. Instead of rigid structures, we provide real responsibility, freedom to explore, and support to grow. Together, we shape not only the future of our company and the development of our people, but also the health of communities worldwide.