Scientist II

Job Overview

We are seeking a collaborative and driven contractor to accelerate our lentiviral vector (LVV) and adeno-associated virus (AAV) generation platforms. The primary objective of this engagement is to increase viral vector production throughput and yield to support rapid turnaround for screening and pipeline studies. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a cutting-edge research team, contribute to the development of innovative viral vector-based therapeutic modalities, and support our research community in applying viral vectors as powerful research tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Automation and High-Throughput Workflows: Integrate automation into high-throughput LVV and AAV workflows. Implement and program automated liquid-handling systems (e.g., Integra Assist Plus and Bravo) for transfection, transduction, sample dilution, and cell seeding. Incorporate high-throughput shaker arrays or automated microscale bioreactor platforms (e.g., Ambr 15 or Ambr 250) for parallel, small-scale expression runs. Troubleshoot liquid-class parameters, pipetting precision, and plasticware compatibility to minimize batch-to-batch variation.
• LVV Upstream Process Development: Develop and optimize suspension-based lentiviral vector upstream production platforms. Design, execute, and characterize robust, scalable upstream processes, from seed-train expansion through shake-flask production and primary harvest. Apply Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies to explore multivariate interactions, including multi-plasmid transient transfection conditions, plasmid ratios, transfection reagents (e.g., PEI and lipid nanoparticles), DNA-to-cell ratios, harvest timing, feed schedules, and chemical enhancers to improve packaging efficiency.
• LVV Downstream Process Development: Develop and establish downstream LVV processes. Evaluate and identify optimal low-shear depth filtration and microfiltration protocols tailored to large-scale viral production. Develop and optimize ultrafiltration/diafiltration (TFF) and chromatographic purification methodologies.
• Viral Vector Analytics and Quality Control: Conduct physical and functional characterization of LVV and AAV products to assess quality attributes and ensure high-quality services. Integrate quality control analytics into upstream and downstream process development to rapidly identify opportunities for improvement.
• Data, Inventory, and Protocol Management: Analyze multivariate process datasets using Excel, Prism, or AI agents to facilitate project progression. Maintain an organized virus inventory and registry using digital informatics platforms to ensure data integrity and traceability. Author standard operating procedures (SOPs), technical reports, and technology transfer protocols. Present data at group and departmental meetings.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Proficiency in mammalian cell culture and general molecular biology techniques, including transient plasmid transfection, PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, dPCR, and Western blotting.
• Strong data analysis, interpretation, and presentation skills.
• Hands-on experience with ex vivo CAR T-cell engineering using lentivirus is required.
• Experience with lentivirus or AAV production in adherent or suspension cells, process development, statistical DOE modeling, and automated liquid handling is highly desirable.
• Experience operating flow cytometers, using electronic laboratory notebooks, and managing BSL-2 facilities is a strong plus.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, analytical, and highly organized, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Education and Experience

• MS or PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Genetics, or a related discipline.
• At least 3 years of laboratory research or industrial experience.

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