Associate Scientist, Upstream Process Development

Role Summary

Associate Scientist, Upstream Process Development is a lab-based role focused on executing and optimizing mammalian cell culture processes to support clinical manufacturing. The successful candidate will set up and run bioreactor experiments, analyze cell culture performance, and support process improvements. The role also involves collaborating with the cell line development team to support the generation and evaluation of commercially viable cell lines for novel and complex therapeutic molecules.

Responsibilities

• Independently execute and analyze lab-scale fed-batch bioreactor experiments to support upstream process development and optimization efforts.
• Support hands-on cell line development workflows, including transfection, selection, single cell cloning, clone screening, and banking.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot key laboratory equipment such as Vi-CELL, Nova Flex2, Octet, and bench-scale bioreactors.
• Maintain accurate and timely lab notebooks and author clear, well-structured technical development reports.
• Actively contribute to platform process improvements and evaluate emerging technologies through practical lab testing.
• Consistently follow established experimental protocols and lab workflows and provide input for their refinement and improvement.

Qualifications

• Required: BA/BS or MS degree in biology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or related scientific discipline with 3+ years mammalian cell culture experience in the biotech/biopharma industry
• Required: Good understanding of mammalian/CHO cell culture and upstream process development concepts
• Preferred: Hands on experience with AMBR bioreactor systems
• Required: Excellent critical thinking, scientific problem-solving, communication skills and strong attention to detail
• Required: Experience in executing projects with ambitious timelines with the ability to adapt to rapid changes in project priorities