Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Developmen

Kelly Services; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 48,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A Houston-based biopharma company is seeking an Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development, on a 6-month contract to support gene therapy manufacturing.

The role covers viral vector purification, development support, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration to advance AAV processes in a GMP environment. Candidates should have a BSc in a biological science and 2+ years in biotech, with hands-on purification experience and regulatory familiarity.

Qualifications

• BSc in Biological Science or related field.
• 2+ years in biotech/biopharma environment.
• Experience in virus/protein purification and aseptic technique.
• Familiarity with chromatography/filtration; AKTA preferred.
• Experience with viral vector bioprocessing (AAV preferred).
• Comfort in GLP/GMP regulated environments; FDA/EMA knowledge a plus.
• Strong documentation and teamwork skills.
• Proficiency with MS Office and precise record-keeping.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs regularly (50 lbs occasionally).

Responsibilities

• Execute viral vector purification and GMP batch runs.
• Support development operations and reagent prep.
• Draft SOPs and batch records; ensure compliant documentation.
• Collaborate with analytical/upstream teams on QC attributes.
• Maintain lab protocols, inventory, and safety procedures.
• Stay current with advances in viral vector process development.

Skills

Biotech lab experience

Team collaboration

Documentation skills

MS Office proficiency

Education

BSc in Biological Science

Tools

AKTA chromatography

Virus purification

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Are you ready to play a vital role in transforming the future of neurological disease treatment? An innovative, clinical-stage biopharma company is seeking a talented Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development, to join their fast-growing team in Houston on a contract basis. This is a unique opportunity to advance your career in gene therapy, supporting a rapidly expanding pipeline and world-class manufacturing environment.

Position Title: Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development

Location: Houston, TX

Rate: $35-40/hr.

Duration: 6 months + potential extension

About the Opportunity

This hands-on technical role supports the design, execution, and optimization of breakthrough gene therapy products. Reporting to the Associate Director, Downstream Process Development, you will contribute across a spectrum of viral vector purification activities—empowering the company’s pipeline from research through clinical and commercial production. Be part of a collaborative and mission-driven culture that is unwavering in its commitment to patients, innovation, and scientific excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute routine and complex viral vector purification, from buffer preparation and sampling to small-scale purification runs and GMP batch execution.
• Support process development operations including development and toxicology production runs, reagent prep, inventory control, and lab upkeep.
• Draft and review critical documentation, including SOPs, batch production records, process forms, and laboratory records, adhering to best practices in biotechnology and compliance.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with analytical and upstream teams to define and deliver critical quality attributes and process performance for AAV purification.
• Maintain accurate laboratory protocols and data capture, participating in inventory and equipment management, waste disposal, and lab safety procedures.
• Stay engaged with the latest advances in viral vector process development and proactively contribute to the success of the process development team.

What We’re Looking For

• BSc in Biological Science or related discipline
• 2+ years’ experience in a biotechnology or biopharma environment preferred
• Practical experience in basic laboratory operations related to virus/protein purification, buffer preparation, and aseptic technique
• Familiarity with chromatography and filtration purification methods; AKTA chromatography experience preferred
• Hands-on experience with viral vector bioprocessing, especially AAV, is an advantage
• Comfortable working in regulated environments (GLP/GMP); GMP experience is a plus
• Understanding of bioprocess documentation (SOPs, batch records) and regulatory expectations (FDA/EMA/cGMP a plus)
• Proven team player with strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Tech-savvy with proficiency in MS Office, accurate documentation practices, and attention to detail
• Ability to work flexibly, lift up to 25 lbs frequently (50 lbs occasionally), and thrive in a laboratory setting

Why Join Us?

• Grow with a forward-thinking company at the cutting edge of gene therapy for neurological diseases
• Collaborate with industry experts and contribute to life-changing therapies
• Advance your skills in a highly supportive, innovation-focused culture
• Be part of a Houston-based organization with an end-to-end manufacturing footprint, setting the stage for personal and professional growth

Take your next step in the gene therapy revolution. Apply your expertise in downstream process development to truly make a difference for patients and families facing rare diseases.