Scientist I, Process Development-Downstream Viral Vector

Process Development Costa Mesa, California


Description

Looking to join a passionate team dedicated to developing and manufacturing life-saving biopharmaceuticals? Avid Bioservices is a leading clinical and commercial biologics CDMO focused on creating innovative solutions to meet the needs of our clients and improve patient outcomes.
       
Your Role:
Join us as a Scientist I, Process Development-Downstream Viral Vector where you'll harness scientific and engineering concepts to solve complex downstream processes related to viral vector clarification, concentration, purification, formulation, and filtration. Your role as a lab bench scientist encompasses developing and optimizing chromatography-based purification, and filtration approaches related to viral vector bulk drug substance and drug product.  You will participate in process scale-up, optimization, technology transfer, and process characterization efforts. You'll be an integral part of both client and internal programs. Make your mark in the world of cutting-edge science and innovation.
 
  • Operate chromatography skids, tangential flow units, pumps and other equipment needed to perform downstream purification activities specific to viral vectors
  • Create and execute well-designed experiments, meticulously analyze results, and derive meaningful insights.
  • Actively engage in supporting both client and internal programs, contributing your expertise to drive successful outcomes.
  • Excel in troubleshooting downstream process issues, proactively brainstorming innovative solutions to overcome upstream challenges.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in designing methods and procedures for novel assignments.
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation of data and findings to ensure traceability and regulatory compliance, while regularly updating management on project status and progress.
  • Exhibit strong technical writing skills, creating detailed technical protocols, Process Development reports, user requirements, SOPs, and other essential documents.
  • Provide valuable guidance and mentorship to Associate Scientists and Laboratory interns, fostering their growth and development.
  • Prioritize safety by adhering to all policies, practices, and procedures, promptly reporting any unsafe activities, actively participating in collaborative team efforts to achieve departmental and company goals, and flexibly performing additional duties as assigned.
  • Other tasks as assigned. 
Minimum Qualifications:  
  • Bachelor’s degree in biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Virology, biomedical engineering or an equivalent scientific field, or a combination of education and experience that demonstrates the necessary knowledge and skills. 
  • 4+ years of relevant and hands-on experience in viral vector, protein, or large molecule purification. 
  • Hands-on experience with AKTA-based chromatography skids. 
  • Hands-on experience with all type of filtration. 
  • Proficiency in scaling up purification-based processes 
  • Understanding of regulatory requirements and CGMP compliance in bioprocess development.  
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master’s degree in biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Virology, biomedical engineering or an equivalent scientific field, or a combination of education and experience that demonstrates the necessary knowledge and skills.
  • Proven experience with midsize and large-size purification approaches for viral vectors.
Who you are:
  • You are a highly independent and proactive scientist, able to design and execute experiments with minimal supervision while ensuring the highest standards of quality and reproducibility.
  • Your written and verbal communication skills are exceptional, enabling you to craft clear, concise, and detailed batch records, protocols, and reports.
  • You bring a proactive mindset, always seeking ways to optimize downstream processes while ensuring their integrity and quality.
  • Your troubleshooting skills are top-notch, enabling you to quickly identify, analyze, and resolve challenges across various downstream unit operations.
  • You thrive in a fast-paced environment, multitasking with unparalleled attention to detail to keep everything running smoothly.
  • While you are independent, you are also a strong team player who collaborates effectively, leveraging teamwork to drive innovation and success.
  • You excel at building relationships, fostering a positive and collaborative environment with team members, colleagues, clients, vendors, and suppliers.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:       
This role is a full-time position with working days of Monday through Friday, unless otherwise stated by Supervisor. Must have the ability to work overtime, weekends and/or holidays when necessary.
 
Compensation:       
We offer competitive compensation packages for this role, including a base salary, equity grants, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off.       
       
The compensation range for this role is $101,300-$135,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, we offer opportunities for career growth and development as well as a supportive and inclusive work environment.     
 
We understand the importance of attracting and retaining top talent. The expected base pay range for this position is ($101,300-$135,000) plus bonus, stock equity, and comprehensive benefits. The base pay range reflects the target range for this position, but individual pay will be determined by additional factors such as job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. Our benefits include health, dental and vision insurance benefits to ensure your well-being.
       
Physical Demands & Work Environment:       
In this dynamic role, expect a blend of regular activities like sitting, standing, and walking, with occasional physically engaging tasks such as lifting objects up to 20 pounds. The work environment might expose you to electrical shocks, toxic chemicals, vibrations, or loud noise levels occasionally. However, reasonable accommodations are available to enable individuals with different abilities to perform effectively, ensuring a supportive and adaptable work setting. Your visual acuity, including close, distance, and color vision, will be essential in navigating through the diverse day-to-day demands of this position.