Contract Research Associate I

The Contract Research Associate (RA) will provide support to the scientists of the Upstream Process Development team in the execution of experiments to develop novel and robust production processes for adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors using state-of-the-art cell culture approaches. As part of the Early Research Process Development group, they will collaborate with Downstream Process Development, Analytical Process Development, Vector Core, and late-stage process development teams.

Primary Responsibilities Include:

• Maintain and scale up mammalian cell culture seed trains using aseptic techniques.
• Develop proficiency in bioreactor manipulation and control software operation using Ambr 15, Ambr 250, and/or Bioflo320 systems.
• Take routine samples from ongoing AAV productions and evaluate critical performance attributes.
• Perform daily management of consumables and waste streams, including buffer and tubing preparation.
• Participate in the maintenance, calibration and troubleshooting of upstream instruments.
• Support upstream team members in experiment setup, execution, breakdown, and analytical sample submission.
• Assist in the proper documentation of experimental records.
• Present research findings in group meetings to team members and leadership.
• Coordinate weekly/monthly laboratory activities.
• Contribute to a safe, efficient, and effective team environment with personal accountability.

Desired Education and Skills:

• A Bachelor of Science in biochemical engineering, biology, biochemistry, molecular genetics, or a relevant scientific or engineering discipline with at least one year of hands-on laboratory experience is required.
• Previous experience of mammalian cell culture techniques such as cell passaging, aseptic technique processing, transient transfection and cell culture harvest is desired.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and knowledge of statistical software such as JMP, GraphPad Prism, etc. is desired.
• Good organizational and documentation skills and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced work environment is required.
• The ability to quickly adjust to shifting priorities and demanding timelines when necessary.
• Excellent communication skills with the proven ability to build open and collaborative relationships and work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team. #LI-Onsite