Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development

Vita Global Sciences, a Kelly Company; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 51,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Vita Global Sciences, a Kelly Company, in Houston, TX, seeks an Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development, to advance gene therapy manufacturing. This hands-on role designs, executes, and optimizes viral vector purification activities from research through clinical production.

You will collaborate with analytical and upstream teams, ensure compliance with GMP/GLP, and contribute to an expanding pipeline in a world-class manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• 2+ years’ experience in a biotechnology or biopharma environment preferred.
• Practical experience in virus/protein purification, buffer prep, and aseptic technique.
• Familiarity with chromatography and filtration purification methods; AKTA experience preferred.
• Hands-on experience with viral vector bioprocessing, especially AAV, is an advantage.
• Comfortable in regulated environments (GLP/GMP); GMP experience is a plus.
• Understanding of bioprocess documentation (SOPs, batch records) and regulatory expectations.

Responsibilities

• Execute routine and complex viral vector purification, from buffer prep to GMP batch execution.
• Support process development operations including development and toxicology production runs.
• Draft and review SOPs, batch records, process forms, and lab records with good documentation.
• Collaborate with analytical and upstream teams to define QC attributes and process performance for AAV.
• Maintain lab protocols, data capture, inventory, equipment, and safety procedures.
• Stay current with advances in viral vector process development to support the team.

Skills

Biotech experience

Team collaboration

Documentation

Problem solving

Education

BSc in Biological Science

Tools

AKTA chromatography

MS Office

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

$37-40/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.