Upstream Associate Scientist

Job Title: Upstream Associate Scientist

Location: Andover, MA 01810

(Onsite – 5 days/week, primary lab-based role)

Duration: 12-Month Contract (Potential Extension)

Shift hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Pay Rate: $/hr on w2

Position Overview

The Associate Scientist will be a part of a diverse and motivated team of scientists, engineers, and technical professionals that are focused on fermentation processes to produce biotherapeutics. The role is well-integrated into the rest of the MSAT Microbial Team. This role will collaborate with other MSAT scientists to setup bioreactors and execute well-designed experiments, including but not limited to basic analytics, data acquisition and documentation of work. The candidate would also be responsible for user-level maintenance of the relevant equipment and associated documentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Support upstream process development and MSAT activities across various projects

• Operate and maintain bioreactors at multiple scales (bench-top, intermediate, pilot scale)

• Perform cell culture activities using aseptic techniques

• Prepare and manage media, solutions, and laboratory materials

• Conduct routine sampling and analysis of cell culture systems

• Utilize process analytical technologies (PAT) and analytical equipment, including:

o BioHT / Cedex systems

o Blood gas analyzers

o Spectrophotometers

o pH meters and standard lab instrumentation

• Execute experiments in compliance with established protocols and work instructions

• Accurately document experimental results and communicate findings (written and verbal)

• Collaborate with cross-functional team members across multiple programs

• Follow strict safety procedures and laboratory best practices

• Maintain laboratory area and equipment in clean, safe, and functional order

• Perform routine laboratory studies

• Qualified candidates will serve as an upstream resource for the department and project teams

• Follow Standard Operating Procedures and Standard Work instructions

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or related field (preferred)

• Associate degree considered with relevant experience

• Bachelor's Degree or Associate Degree in a relevant discipline (Chemical engineering, Bioprocessing, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, etc.) with 0 - 2 years of applicable bioprocess experience

Experience

• 0–2 years of relevant experience in bioprocessing, cell culture, or related field

• Industry experience preferred

• Co-op or internship experience in a biopharmaceutical or biotech setting considered valuable

• Biopharmaceutical or pharmaceutical industry experience preferred

Required Skills and Competencies

• Basic knowledge of upstream bioprocessing and cell culture techniques

• Familiarity with aseptic techniques and lab safety practices

• Hands-on experience with bioreactors or cell culture systems (preferred)

• Strong communication skills (both written and verbal)

• Ability to follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced team environment

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

• Scientific knowledge and experience of upstream techniques

• Ability to perform complex data analysis and work in a dynamic team environment

• Ability to troubleshoot technical issues, plan and carry out experiments independently, and work with complex instrumentation and software

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

• Strong analytical and computer skills

Preferred Skills

• Hands-on experience with process analytical tools (e.g., Cedex, BioHT)

• Understanding of bioprocess monitoring and data analysis

• Familiarity with AI-assisted tools (e.g., Copilot or similar) is a plus

• Biopharmaceutical or pharmaceutical industry experience

• Proficient in aseptic technique (REQUIRED)

• Experience in bioreactor operation and associated analytical tools

• Experience in troubleshooting electrical and mechanical systems

• Experience in executing lab scale microbial fermentation formats and scale-up to pilot/manufacturing scale

• Familiarity with control and data acquisition systems

• Knowledge of cell culture/fermentations

• Experience with industrial scale fermentation scale up, optimization and operations are highly desired

• Curiosity about seeking and applying current relevant scientific literature

How You Will Achieve It

• Contribute to achievement of the upstream work group goals and collaborate with other team members

• Maintain laboratory area and equipment in clean, safe, and functional order

• Comply with safety and regulatory requirements is expected and documented through the internal training program

• Perform routine laboratory studies

• Qualified candidates will serve as an upstream resource for the department and project teams

• Follow Standard Operating Procedures and Standard Work instructions

Physical / Mental Requirements

• Involves typical bioprocessing lab activities, including routine assembly of bioreactors

• Ability to routinely lift 50 lbs

• Standing for prolonged periods of time, walking, bending, and using tools

• Ability to perform mathematical calculations and ability to perform complex data analysis

Non-Standard Work Schedule, Travel or Environment Requirements

• Requires off hours working to support laboratory work on average of two times per week

• This is an on-site laboratory role