Scientist

Scientist – Upstream Process Development

Location: Philadelphia, PA (100% onsite)

About the Opportunity

We are partnering with an innovative biotechnology organization in Philadelphia as they continue to expand their research and development capabilities.

We are seeking an experienced Scientist with a strong background in upstream bioprocess development and viral vector production to join a growing scientific team.

This is a hands-on, laboratory-focused opportunity for an independent scientist who enjoys experimental design, process optimization, troubleshooting, and translating early-stage research into scalable, reproducible processes.

The successful individual will contribute to the development and optimization of viral vector manufacturing processes supporting advanced therapeutic applications, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary scientific and technical teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead hands-on experimental activities focused on upstream process development, optimization, and scale-up of viral vector production.
• Develop and refine mammalian cell culture processes, including shake flask and bioreactor-based systems.
• Optimize viral vector production workflows, including transfection methodologies, cell culture conditions, and production parameters.
• Evaluate media formulations, feeding strategies, and process controls to improve productivity, consistency, and product quality.
• Design and execute experiments to assess process performance, scalability, and reproducibility.
• Analyze experimental results, troubleshoot technical challenges, and recommend process improvements.
• Collaborate with scientific and technical stakeholders across research, analytical development, and process development functions.
• Support process characterization, knowledge transfer, and progression of research activities toward larger-scale development.
• Prepare technical documentation, experimental summaries, and scientific presentations to communicate findings and recommendations.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with established biosafety, documentation, and data integrity standards.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Master's degree with 4 years of relevant industry experience, or PhD with 1 year of industry experience in Bioengineering, Cell Biology, Virology, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in viral vector production and upstream bioprocess development, ideally involving lentiviral vector systems.
• Strong experience with mammalian suspension cell culture and transient transfection techniques.
• Practical experience developing and optimizing upstream processes across shake flask and bioreactor platforms.
• Experience with bioreactor scale-up, ideally involving pilot-scale systems up to approximately 50L.
• Working knowledge of molecular biology techniques, including PCR/qPCR/dPCR, plasmid-related workflows, and cell line development.
• Experience designing, executing, and troubleshooting complex laboratory experiments.
• Understanding of how upstream processing parameters influence productivity, product quality, and process consistency.
• Familiarity with gene therapy, cell therapy, or other advanced therapeutic development platforms is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical capabilities, with the ability to interpret experimental data and communicate scientific recommendations.
• Experience maintaining electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and producing high-quality technical documentation.
• Ability to operate independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative, fast-paced R&D environment.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to innovative therapeutic development programs, take ownership of meaningful laboratory activities, and work alongside experienced scientists advancing next-generation biotechnology.