Senior Scientist, Upstream Process Development

Job description

The Senior Scientist, Upstream Process Development will play a hands-on role in advancing our novel expression technology by developing, optimizing, and scaling fermentation and cell-culture processes. This role is for a senior upstream scientist who will help push our novel expression technology to the next level by developing, challenging, and improving fermentation and cell-culture processes through deep scientific thinking, creativity, and hands-on experimentation. We are looking for an experienced, creative, and persistent upstream Senior Scientist who actively uses literature, engineering judgment, and hands-on experimentation to solve complex bioprocess challenges. Tasks Upstream Process Development Design and execute upstream process-development studies with minimal supervision. Translate literature insights into hypothesis-driven experiments and process improvements. Identify and optimize critical process parameters affecting upstream performance. Apply analytical tools to improve understanding of organism physiology and fermentation performance. Run bioreactors regularly as part of the development workflow and support routine production when needed. Document, analyze, and present experimental data clearly. Perform core laboratory activities, including media preparation, shake-flask studies, bioreactor setup and operation, process monitoring, inoculation, harvest, centrifugation, and sterile filtration. Follow SOPs and guidelines to maintain culture integrity, prevent contamination, and ensure compliance. Innovation & Problem Solving Apply creative, engineering-driven thinking to improve the expression platform. Troubleshoot bottlenecks and propose innovative, scientifically grounded solutions. Cross‑Functional Collaboration Collaborate with process development, analytical development, and protein sciences teams. Contribute to project planning, timelines, and risk assessments. Requirements PhD in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, or related field. At least 5 years of relevant experience in fermentation or cell-culture process development. 3 years industry experience. Strong hands‑on expertise with bioreactors, fermentation control systems, and scale‑up principles. Experience with contamination-control strategies, operational risk assessment, and process monitoring. Solid understanding of bioprocess engineering fundamentals, metabolic principles, and cell physiology. Experience with tech transfer activities is a plus. Broad hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture platforms, including fed-batch and/or perfusion. Experience with microbial expression systems is a plus. Independent, proactive, and able to drive progress with minimal supervision. Willing to spend a considerable amount of time hands-on in the laboratory. Strong data analysis skills and familiarity with common bioprocess software tools. Creative, resourceful, and persistent in solving technical challenges. Clear communicator and collaborative team player. If this role matches your profile, please upload your CV and motivation letter.