Upstream Process Development Scientist

Position Overview

Our Eurofins PSS team is seeking an Upstream Scientist to work onsite supporting our client's upstream process development activities related to the production of sterile, injectable lentiviral vector (LVV)-based gene therapy products. The successful candidate will help support the execution and optimization of LVV production protocols, maintenance of mammalian suspension cell culture systems, process robustness, and yield-improvement studies. This role partners closely with cross-functional teams across the CMC project teams to support all upstream operations for the client's program.

Job Responsibilities

• Execute LVV production protocols using shake flasks and benchtop bioreactors to support ongoing process development and characterization studies.
• Support routine maintenance of suspension cell cultures, applying strong aseptic technique and sterile workflow practices to preserve culture health and integrity.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to coordinate analytical testing, exchange materials, share technical observations, and align on project timelines.
• Maintain lab stocks, supplies, and equipment specific to the upstream team to support daily operations.
• Document process data in electronic lab notebook and shared databases and communicate key observations in team meetings.

Basic Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. in Biology, Biochemistry, Biological Engineering or a related field with at least 1 year of relevant industry experience OR M.S. in Biology, Biochemistry, Biological Engineering or a related field with at least 6 months of relevant industry experience.
• Proficient in mammalian suspension cell culture operations, including execution of established production protocols for routine culture maintenance and shake flask seed train expansion.
• Strong aseptic technique, with hands-on experience working within a biosafety cabinet (BSC) to maintain sterile, contamination-free workflows.
• Experience with buffer and media preparation to support ongoing cell culture operations.
• Experience documenting process results in electronic lab notebooks and effectively communicating experimental observations to management and cross-functional team.
• Meticulous attention to detail in sample tracking, experiment execution, data recording, and laboratory documentation.
• Ability to set priorities and multi-task activities to effectively manage workflows and drive deliverables to completion.
• Strong team orientation, with excellent organizational skills, self-motivation, and a positive attitude.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly communicate experimental results and observations.
• Authorization to work in the United States indefinitely without restriction or sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with viral vector, cell therapy, gene therapy, or related biologics process development.
• Hands-on experience operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, including shake flasks, benchtop bioreactor systems, peristaltic pumps, and tube welders.
• Experience performing cell banking activities to support consistent, well-characterized starting material for upstream production.
• Familiar with gene delivery techniques such as transient transfection.