What are the responsibilities and job description for the Bench Scientist position at Aequor?
Bench Scientist I (Upstream Bioprocessing)
📍 Location: Andover, MA
⏳ Duration: 12 Months Contract
🕒 Schedule: Monday–Friday, Onsite (Core Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated Bench Scientist I to join a Manufacturing Sciences & Technology (MSAT) Upstream team supporting commercial biopharmaceutical and vaccine programs. This role will focus on upstream process development, fermentation, bioreactor operations, cell culture activities, process troubleshooting, and laboratory experimentation in a collaborative scientific environment.
Key Responsibilities
• Support upstream process development and MSAT activities across multiple projects
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot bioreactors at bench, intermediate, and pilot scales
• Perform cell culture and fermentation activities using aseptic techniques
• Prepare media, buffers, solutions, and laboratory materials
• Execute experiments according to established protocols and SOPs
• Perform routine sampling, data collection, and laboratory analysis
• Utilize analytical instruments including Cedex, BioHT, blood gas analyzers, spectrophotometers, pH meters, and related equipment
• Document experimental procedures, observations, and results accurately
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and GMP documentation practices
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's or Associate Degree in Biotechnology, Biology, Biochemistry, Bioprocessing, Chemical Engineering, or related scientific discipline
• 0–2 years of relevant laboratory, bioprocessing, fermentation, or cell culture experience
• Proficiency in aseptic techniques (required)
• Knowledge of upstream bioprocessing and fermentation principles
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and data analysis skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
Preferred Qualifications
• Biopharmaceutical or pharmaceutical industry experience
• Experience with microbial fermentation and bioreactor operations
• Cell culture experience
• Experience with process analytical technologies (PAT)
• Knowledge of process control and data acquisition systems
• Scale-up experience from laboratory to pilot/manufacturing environments
• Experience troubleshooting laboratory equipment and instrumentation
• Familiarity with Cedex, BioHT, and related analytical platforms
• Internship or co-op experience within biotech or pharmaceutical organizations
Physical Requirements
• Ability to routinely lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and work in a laboratory environment for extended periods
• Ability to support occasional off-hours laboratory activities