Sprekno is a food-tech startup revolutionizing alternative proteins by transforming food industry byproducts into high-value, sustainable protein ingredients. Through mycelium fermentation, Sprekno creates clean-label, functional proteins for food manufacturers. Sprekno's mission is to reduce food waste, cut emissions, and provide scalable, next-gen protein solutions for a more sustainable food system.Role DescriptionThis is a co-founder position with an equity split (no salary initially) for a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Sprekno, based in Zurich/Basel or Switzerland. I’m looking for someone passionate about fermentation, sustainability, and food innovation who can join immediately to shape Sprekno together. The ideal candidate has expertise in food technology, mycelium fermentation, food science, bioprocessing, and biotechnology, with experience in scaling fermentation processes, developing alternative proteins, and navigating food regulations and quality standards.As CTO & Co-Founder, you will lead the technical development of the food product, focusing on:Conducting the MVP development to validate Sprekno's protein solutions.Scaling production from lab to pilot phase, ensuring technical feasibility.Ensuring food safety, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance for market approval.Actively contributing to the business model development, ensuring scalability and alignment with market needs.Helping define company strategy and operations, working alongside the founding team to build a strong foundation for growth.QualificationsBackground in Food Science, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or Fermentation Technology.Hands-on experience with Mycelium Fermentation, Precision Fermentation, or Alternative Protein Development.Expertise in developing MVPs and scaling food production from pilot to industrial levels.Understanding of Food Safety, Regulatory Compliance, and Quality Assurance.Ability to lead R&D, optimize production processes, and validate product-market fit.Startup Mindset – Entrepreneurial, Problem-Solving, and Growth-Oriented.Fluent in English (written and spoken), good level of German and additional languages are an advantage.Bonus Points For:Experience in food-tech startups or alternative proteinsKnowledge of ingredient markets and food processingFamiliarity with fundraising, grants, and startup financingWhy Join Sprekno?Co-Founder Equity Split (No Salary Initially) – You will be a key decision-maker & company ownerLead Product Development & MVP Execution – Drive R&D, fermentation, and ingredient formulationScalability & Impact – Be part of a mission-driven startup tackling food waste & sustainable protein innovationFuture Funding & Growth – We will work together to raise capital and expand Sprekno into a market leaderInterested? Let’s talk! Apply via LinkedIn.If you're passionate about food innovation, fermentation, and building something from scratch, I’d love to hear from you!Seniority levelExecutiveEmployment typeFull-time
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