Scientist, Cell Therapy Vector Biology (Downstream Processing)

Job Description

We are seeking a Scientist to join a growing process development team focused on viral vector purification and downstream process development. This position will play a critical role in designing, executing, troubleshooting, and optimizing purification workflows supporting lentiviral and other viral vector programs in a research and development environment.

The ideal candidate will bring strong hands-on experience with AKTA chromatography systems, tangential flow filtration (TFF), and viral vector purification. This is a highly laboratory-focused role where candidates will be responsible for the entire purification workflow, from experimental planning and preparation through execution, data analysis, documentation, and material handoff.

The team values scientific rigor, organization, preparation, and flawless execution over speed. Candidates from lab-scale process development environments will be most successful in this position.

Key Responsibilities Downstream Process Development Design, execute, and optimize downstream purification processes for viral vector programs. Develop purification workflows to improve yield, purity, and process robustness. Support bench-scale process development activities and early-stage manufacturing readiness. Evaluate process performance and recommend improvements based on data and experimental observations. Chromatography & Purification Independently operate AKTA chromatography systems to perform purification campaigns. Execute chromatography methods and monitor chromatograms in real time. Perform process troubleshooting and root cause investigations. Interpret chromatography data and document results. Support purification activities utilizing FPLC, UPLC, or related chromatography systems when applicable. Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) Operate TFF systems for concentration and buffer exchange activities. Develop and optimize filtration processes. Monitor and evaluate key process parameters during filtration operations. Perform process documentation and data analysis following each run. Laboratory Operations Prepare buffers, reagents, and materials required for purification workflows. Support depth filtration and clarification operations. Maintain accurate laboratory records, batch documentation, and experimental summaries. Coordinate material storage, sample management, and QC handoffs. Participate in troubleshooting studies and process investigations. Operate safely within a BSL-2 laboratory environment. Cross-Functional Collaboration Collaborate closely with analytical, QC, process development, and scientific teams. Communicate findings, challenges, and recommendations effectively. Participate in process transfer and scale-up discussions as programs advance.

Skills and Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or related scientific discipline with relevant industry experience; OR Master's degree in a related scientific field. Hands-on experience operating AKTA chromatography systems. Experience with downstream process development in a laboratory or pilot-scale environment. Experience performing tangential flow filtration (TFF). Experience with viral vector purification, protein purification, or related biologics purification processes. Strong understanding of chromatography principles, chromatogram interpretation, and process troubleshooting. Experience preparing buffers, reagents, and process documentation. Ability to work independently in a laboratory setting. Experience working in a BSL-2 environment. Lentiviral vector purification experience. Experience supporting cell and gene therapy programs. AAV purification experience. Experience with: Depth filtration Clarification processes Buffer exchange operations Process optimization studies Technology transfer activities Familiarity with FPLC and UPLC platforms. Experience in discovery-stage or early process development organizations.

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to [email protected].