Associate Scientist, Process Development Upstream

Description

Looking to join a passionate team dedicated to developing and manufacturing life-saving biopharmaceuticals? Avid Bioservices is a leading clinical and commercial biologics CDMO focused on creating innovative solutions to meet the needs of our clients and improve patient outcomes.

Your Role:

The Associate Scientist, Process Development Upstream will work with the Process Development team to develop and optimize scalable processes with improved product yield and reduced costs for manufacturing systems. In addition, they will maintain production equipment, research and implement new methods, technologies, and ways of working to enhance process operations.

• Responsible for mammalian cell culture process development to produce recombinant proteins. Experience with aseptic techniques, growing and maintaining cells in shake flasks and wave and stirred tank bioreactors, media screening, adaptation to suspension and serum-free conditions, comparing growth and productivity in various media is required. Experience with the Sartorius ambr 250 24-way is a plus.
• Work with many varieties of mammalian cell lines and apply a good understanding of the effect of general metabolic pathways (nutrient usage, expression system, etc.) physical (morphology, pH, osmolality, etc.) as well as mechanical (agitation speeds, oxygen and pH control, etc.) parameters on cell growth and production.
• Operate and troubleshoot essential process equipment such as bioreactors and analyzers.
• Lead studies to optimize cell culture conditions and processes.
• Develop and optimize production bioreactor process at various scales including bench/pilot/manufacturing scales and tech transfer processes to the Manufacturing department.
• Document data and findings for traceability and regulatory requirements, author batch records, protocols, technical reports, and lastly, communicate findings and participate in scientific discussions within the group and with clients.
• Develops skills in data analysis and ability to evaluate quality of data, create data spreadsheets in Excel and JMP.
• Recommend alternatives, research new methods and techniques and proactively seek out senior personnel to discuss potential solutions to problems.
• Research and implement new methods and technologies to enhance operations, clarification filter sizing, culture media and supplement/feed preparation, cell culture growth, protein production and nutrient usage.
• Provide and lead technical support with cell culture solutions and troubleshooting to Process Development, MSAT, and Manufacturing teams.
• Supervise junior cell culture team members.
• Work with minimal supervision on projects of moderate to complex scope.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications:

• This position requires a bachelor’s degree in the Biological or Physical Sciences.
• A minimum of 4-6 years of relevant experience and demonstrated working knowledge of scientific principles.
• Proficiency in the use of scientific laboratory techniques, equipment and materials is required.
  
  

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This role is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless otherwise stated by Supervisor. Any scientific staff member can expect to work overtime, including during the weekends, and/or holidays.

Compensation:

We offer competitive compensation packages for this role, including a base salary, equity grants, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off.

The compensation range for this role is $91,300-$121,700 annually depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, we offer opportunities for career growth and development as well as a supportive and inclusive work environment.

We understand the importance of attracting and retaining top talent. The expected base pay range for this position is ($91,300-$121,700) plus bonus, stock equity, and comprehensive benefits. The base pay range reflects the target range for this position, but individual pay will be determined by additional factors such as job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. Our benefits include health, dental and vision insurance benefits to ensure your well-being.

Who you are:

• You have a "bring it on!" team player approach and an unshakable positive attitude, always ready to tackle anything that comes your way.
• Your written and verbal skills are out of this world, and you communicate with clarity and confidence.
• You have exceptional multitasking skills and an unparalleled attention to detail that ensure the smooth running of everything.
• You are a master at building relationships, capable of establishing connections with anyone, be it team members, clients, vendors, or suppliers.
  
  

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

In this dynamic role, expect a blend of regular activities like sitting, standing, and walking, with occasional physically engaging tasks such as lifting objects up to 20 pounds. The work environment might expose you to electrical shocks, toxic chemicals, vibrations, or loud noise levels occasionally. However, reasonable accommodations are available to enable individuals with different abilities to perform effectively, ensuring a supportive and adaptable work setting. Your visual acuity, including close, distance, and color vision, will be essential in navigating through the diverse day-to-day demands of this position.