Process Development Scientist

Rbl Llc; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A biotechnology firm based in Houston is seeking a Process Development Scientist to design and optimize manufacturing processes for biopharmaceutical products. The ideal candidate will possess a PhD in a relevant field or substantial industry experience. Candidates should have experience in both upstream and downstream processes and strong data analysis skills. The role requires collaboration with various teams to ensure compliance and project alignment, offering a chance to contribute to innovative biotechnological projects.

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant field or MS/BS with 4+ years of biopharmaceutical industry experience.
• 1–4+ years of process development experience within the biopharmaceutical industry.
• Hands-on experience with upstream (cell culture) and/or downstream (purification) processes.
• Familiarity with cGMP regulations and technology transfer best practices.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments for process optimization.
• Develop assays for biomaterial characterization and process validation.
• Support technology transfer activities to internal or external manufacturing sites.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align development activities.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistical software proficiency

Excellent communication skills

Independently and collaboratively work

Education

PhD in BioEngineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field

MS/BS with significant industry experience (4+ years)

Tools

JMP

Minitab

Job description

RBL LLC is a Houston-based venture creation studio committed to the rapid development of clinically meaningful biotech companies. RBL LLC’s team of industry-experienced company builders provides comprehensive services to startups, including lab and office space, financial, administrative, and business development support, as well as clinical trial design, implementation, talent acquisition, and capital sourcing to help early-stage companies build a strong foundation for clinical success. RBL LLC functions as a start-up company where all team members are willing to work collaboratively and across disciplines when needed to ensure success of the organization.

Job Summary:

The Process Development Scientist is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to support the scale‑up, transfer, and commercialization of biopharmaceutical products. This role involves collaborating cross‑functionally with Research, Manufacturing, Quality, and Regulatory teams to ensure robust, reproducible, and compliant processes from early development through commercial production. The ideal candidate will combine deep technical expertise with strong problem‑solving and project management skills to deliver innovative solutions that meet project timelines and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments to develop, optimize, and scale manufacturing processes for biologics, small molecules, or cell/gene therapies (depending on company focus).
• Develop assays for biomaterial and cell/biomaterial combination characterization and process validation.
• Implement and evaluate process improvements to increase yield, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Author and review technical reports, batch records, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and regulatory documentation.
• Support technology transfer activities to internal manufacturing sites or external contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs/CDMOs).
• Apply statistical tools and Quality by Design (QbD) principles to process characterization and validation.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams to align development activities with project goals, timelines, and regulatory requirements.
• Troubleshoot process‑related issues during development, scale‑up, and manufacturing campaigns.
• Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records in compliance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
• Stay current with industry trends, regulatory guidance, and emerging technologies in process development.

Qualifications:

• PhD in BioEngineering, Chemical Engineering, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or related field; or MS/BS with significant (4+ years) industry experience.
• 1–4+ years of experience in process development within the biopharmaceutical industry (early‑to‑late‑stage development).
• Hands‑on experience with upstream (cell culture) and/or downstream (purification) processes.
• Familiarity with cGMP regulations and technology transfer best practices.
• Strong data analysis skills and proficiency with statistical software (e.g., JMP, Minitab).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with single‑use technologies and process automation.
• Prior exposure to regulatory submissions (IND, BLA, NDA, etc.).
• Knowledge of PAT (Process Analytical Technology) and cell‑based products.
• Experience with automated cell processing platforms (e.g., CliniMACS Prodigy, Cocoon, Quantum).
• Prior involvement in process validation and regulatory submissions for cell & gene therapy products.
• Experience in cell engineering, including cell cloning.

RBL LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as defined by applicable laws. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact [e-mail].