Process R&D Scientist II (Upstream)

OXB; Oxford; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading viral vector specialist seeks a Scientist II for upstream processes to perform and report laboratory-based experiments. The role involves supporting viral vector production and developing cell culture processes, requiring a minimum BSc degree and relevant experience in cell culture and viral vectors. Join us in making a difference in gene therapy!

Benefits

Highly competitive rewards

Wellbeing programs

Development opportunities

State-of-the-art facilities

Qualifications

• Minimum BSc degree or equivalent required.
• Relevant experience working with viral vectors is desirable.
• Solid understanding of mammalian suspension cell culture principles.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine suspension cell culture activities for viral vector production.
• Design and execute bioreactor cell culture activities for scale-up.
• Lead experiments and investigations under guidance.

Skills

Fluency in written and spoken English

Good presentation skills

Time management

Innovative mindset

Collaborative spirit

Education

BSc degree or equivalent

Postgraduate degree in relevant field

Job description

Job description:

Do you want to feel inspired every day? We’re a future-focused business that is growing through the passion and commitment of our teamwork. Together we can succeed, and so can you.

We are currently recruiting for a Scientist II PRD (Upstream) to join our team. The purpose of this role is to perform and report laboratory-based experiments or investigations, in accordance with scientific or regulatory requirements, and aligned with departmental objectives.

Oxford Biomedica’s Process R&D team comprises experienced scientists and engineers with extensive expertise in upstream and downstream development. PR&D takes processes from the laboratory “bench” scale and applies process expertise and engineering fundamentals for delivery to manufacturing.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Perform routine suspension cell culture activities to support viral vector production within the Process R&D group.
• Develop and optimize platform upstream cell culture processes for producing lentiviral vectors, working within small project teams.
• Design and execute small-scale and laboratory-scale bioreactor cell culture activities for scale-up/scale-down of existing bioprocesses.
• Support new product process development and scale-up activities for viral vector production in GMP conditions.
• Participate in activities such as viral vector production, process optimization, technology transfer, and process validation related to the manufacture of new gene therapy vectors.
• Lead the execution of experiments and investigations following correct methodologies and procedures, under the guidance of a Team Leader or senior scientist.

We are looking for:

• Minimum BSc degree or equivalent.
• Postgraduate degree and/or relevant experience working with viral vectors is desirable.
• A solid understanding and/or experience of mammalian suspension cell culture principles and processes.
• An innovative mindset, initiative, and collaborative spirit.
• Good time management skills to effectively manage workload.
• Fluency in written and spoken English, with good presentation skills.

About Us:

We are an innovative, leading viral vector specialist focused on delivering life-changing therapies. Our solutions and expertise support biotech and biopharma companies in delivering therapies to patients.

The success of cell and gene therapy products can transform outcomes for millions suffering from severe diseases.

By working together, we are motivated to make a difference.

What’s in it for you:

• Highly competitive rewards
• Wellbeing programs
• Development opportunities
• A 35-hour workweek

• Welcoming, friendly, and supportive colleagues
• A diverse and inclusive environment
• Our values: Deliver Innovation, Be Inspiring, Have Integrity
• State-of-the-art facilities

We want you to feel inspired every day. Our business is growing, and we succeed through passion, commitment, and teamwork—just like you can.

Collaborate. Contribute. Change lives.

We offer:

Oxford Biomedica is a quality and innovation-driven viral vector CDMO with over 25 years of experience in viral vectors, supporting the development and manufacturing of gene therapies.

Cell and gene therapy involves delivering therapeutic genetic material into a patient’s cells, either directly (in vivo) or outside the body (ex vivo). We re-engineer viruses to be safe vectors for gene delivery. Our collaborations span early development to commercialization, backed by robust quality systems and regulatory expertise.