Downstream Scientist

Position Summary

• The primary role of the Downstream Scientist is to design and execute laboratory experiments in the development, optimization, characterization, and scale-up of biologics downstream purification processes to support early process development through TOX and tech transfer to manufacturing. This role requires strong technical expertise, independent experimental design, and the ability to manage project deliverables while collaborating cross-functionally with other teams.
• The role is a combination of laboratory- and office-based work.
• The Scientist will execute laboratory studies and author documentation, including protocols, technical transfer documents, batch records, SOP's and reports.
• The Scientist is expected to follow detailed GLP/GMP procedures and safety requirements.
• The Scientist will be a subject matter expert working in a team environment and will interact with other functional departments.
• Design and execute downstream purification strategies for biologics, including monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and other modalities.
• Lead process development activities involving chromatography (Protein A, ion exchange, HIC) and filtration (UF/DF, TFF).
• Independently plan experiments, analyze data, and draw scientifically sound conclusions to guide process decisions.
• Scale up purification processes and support technology transfer to manufacturing teams.
• Serve as a technical lead for client projects, ensuring timelines, quality, and deliverables are met.
• Author and review technical documentation including development reports, protocols, SOPs, and tech transfer documents.
• Troubleshoot complex purification challenges and implement innovative solutions.
• Ensure compliance with internal and regulatory quality systems.
• Collaborate with upstream, analytical, and manufacturing teams to integrate process development activities.
• Mentor junior scientists and associates, providing technical guidance and training.
• Perform routine laboratory activities including sample management, instrument maintenance and calibration, inventory and ordering of supplies, general housekeeping, and other related activities.
• Laboratory-based position which requires appropriate levels of personal protective equipment (PPE). This role may require contact with biohazardous materials such as live cell cultures and other hazardous chemicals including methotrexate, acids, and caustics. Powdered materials and high temperature liquids and solids may also be handled
• Frequent repeated motions such as pipetting, lifting, bending, twisting, squatting, crouching, kneeling, climbing on step stools, and reaching may be required.
• This role may also require unassisted lifting (not to exceed 50 lbs). Repetitive use of arms/hands/wrists and grasping may also be required
• The position is based indoors and the individual will primarily be working with others, but also independently and alone at times in the laboratory
• The office-based work will require sitting
• Dynamic, fast-paced, interactive, and entrepreneurial environment
  
  

Qualifications

• Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemical or Chemical Engineering, or equivalent area of related industry experience in biologics downstream manufacturing or manufacturing technology
• B.Sc/B.Eng with 3-5 years experience
• M.Sc./M.Eng degree with 2-4 years experience
• Ph.D degree with 0-2 years of relevant industry experience.
• Demonstrated scientific knowledge and laboratory skills in downstream purification (chromatography, dead-end and depth filtration, centrifugation, tangential flow ultrafiltration/diafiltration, viral inactivation and viral filtration) is preferred
• Effective technical communication skills in written and verbal presentation format are essential
• Demonstrated ability to work in fast paced environment in a timely manner, with minimal supervision
  
  

Benefits

Healthcare Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees and their dependents healthcare coverage through BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics. Premiums are subsidized by Synectics.

Dental Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees and their dependents a dental plan through MetLife. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics.

Vision Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees vision insurance through VSP. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics.401(k) Plan: The Synectics Inc. Investment Savings Retirement Plan. Synectics offers all employees who are 21 years of age or older the opportunity to invest in the 401(k) Plan on the first enrollment date that is at least 30 days after employment begins. Enrollment dates are each January 1st, April 1st, July 1st, and October 1st.

Technical Certification Bonus: Synectics is pleased to award its employees a bonus of up to $500 for an approved professional certification. In determining the bonus amount, Synectics will consider the cost of the test(s) for any certification relating to your current position, achieved during your employment with us. Only one Certification Bonus per calendar year may be awarded per employee. Only current, active employees will be eligible to receive this bonus. It will be awarded 90 days after the Synectics office has received documentation confirming the successful completion of the certification.

Synectics is an equal opportunity employer.