Associate Scientist (Gene Therapy Bioreactor Specialist), Process Development

Landmark Bio translates groundbreaking research into life-changing medicines. We provide development, manufacturing, and regulatory capabilities to help early-stage life science innovators rapidly progress advanced therapies from bench to clinic.

While professional experience and qualifications are key for this role, make sure to check you have the preferable soft skills before applying if required.

Launched in 2021, Landmark Bio is an unprecedented venture bringing together the best of industry, academia, and research hospitals to accelerate life sciences innovation.

A public benefit company, our work advances emerging technologies, demonstrates therapeutic potential, and improves human health.

Landmark Bio is based in Watertown, Mass. Our founders include Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, Cytiva, and Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.

Collaborating partners include Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Boston Children’s Hospital.

We are seeking an Associate Scientist (Gene Therapy Bioreactor Specialist) to support Lead Scientists and Director with conducting experiments, and recording, analyzing, and interpreting data and results in the Process Development Department focusing on Gene Therapy.

Scope of Responsibilities

Conduct all aspects of mammalian cell culture (cell lines and primary cells) for the production of AAV (Adenovirus Associated Viral Vector) including culture initiation, propagation, transfection, and harvest in both flasks and small-scale bioreactors (Getinge Applikons 0.

5L and 3L bioreactors and Cytiva 10L XDRs).

• Develop conditions for fed-batch and perfusion bioreactor cultures for HEK293 including kLa (Volumetric Mass Transfer Coefficient), PV (power per volume), tip-speed, and blend time studies.
• Conduct analytical assays using flow cytometry, ELISA, cell counting, qPCR, metabolite measurements (electrolyte and gas values), electrophoresis (DNA, RNA, and protein including western blots ), cytotoxicity assays, and microscopy.
• Maintain accurate and reliable records including database management, batch records, electronic lab notebooks (ELN, Benchling), and all other pertinent documentation related to work-related activities.
• Write and / or contribute to SOPs, batch records, protocols, and reports.
• This is an on-site, hands-on lab-based position requiring a flexible schedule based on experimental work (some weekend work may be required).
• Comply with all safety and infection control standards.

Qualifications

Master’s degree (or foreign equivalent) in Biology, Biotechnology, or closely-related field, plus 3 years’ experience as Research Assistant / Process Development Engineer or closely-related lab-based position.

Experience gained through graduate-level coursework or internships is acceptable.

• Experience, which may have been gained concurrently with primary requirement above, must include the following :
• 3 years of experience with :
• Performing cell culture (adherent, suspension cells), transfection, and harvest in shake flasks, and T-flasks and bioreactors, culturing must be for AAV or lentivirus gene therapy applications;
• Working with analytical assays including : ELISA, SDS-PAGE, Western Blots, cell counting, microscopy, qPCR, and flow cytometry;
• Conducting DOE (design of experiments) studies using JMP software.
• 1 year of experience with :
• Performing statistical analysis of large data sets including : Parametric tests (T-tests, ANOVA, Tukey Kramer) and Non-Parametric tests (Wilcoxon Signed-Rank, Mann-Whitney) and testing for Normality (Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Anderson-Darling).

Up to 5% domestic travel required.

Landmark Bio is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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