Process Development Scientist - Bioreactor

Capricor; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Capricor in San Diego is seeking a Process Development Scientist to lead the development of biomanufacturing processes focusing on scaling cell therapy manufacturing. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. with relevant experience or an MS with extensive background in biotechnology or cell biology.

The position involves responsibilities such as leading scale-up processes, managing scientific projects, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Strong experience in bioreactor technologies and excellent communication skills are required.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of relevant experience for Ph.D. or 7+ years for MS.
• Experience in large-scale adherent cell culture.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for cell therapy products.

Responsibilities

• Lead scale-up of cell culture processes using bioreactors.
• Support optimization of closed system processes for cell therapy.
• Design and execute scientific research projects.
• Manage cross-functional teams for product development.

Skills

Aseptic techniques

Mammalian cell and tissue culture

Bioreactor technologies

Management of junior scientists

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related field

MS in Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related field with 7+ years experience

Job description

About Capricor Therapeutics

Capricor Therapeutics (NASDAQ: CAPR) is a biotechnology company dedicated to advancing transformative cell and exosome‑based therapies for rare diseases. Our lead product, Deramiocel (CAP-1002), is in late‑stage development for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and we also harness our proprietary StealthX™ exosome platform for targeted delivery and vaccinology.

About the Role

The Process Development Scientist will lead the development of biomanufacturing processes to enhance product yield, quality, and cost‑efficiency, with a focus on scaling cell therapy manufacturing using a bioreactor.

Responsibilities

• Lead scale‑up of cell culture processes using bioreactors with a focus on adherent cell bioproduction.
• Support development and optimization of closed system processes for cell therapy production.
• Design, execute, and interpret complex scientific research projects.
• Develop processes to address manufacturing challenges and advance product development.
• Manage scientific aspects of cross‑functional teams, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Help mentor and provide leadership to junior scientists.
• Contribute to intellectual property, publications, patents, and present findings at internal meetings as needed.
• Collaborate with MSAT, manufacturing, quality and regulatory teams to translate research into actionable plans.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support process development objectives.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant experience or MS in Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related field with 7+ years of relevant experience.
• Hands‑on experience in aseptic techniques including mammalian cell and tissue culture with a focus on large‑scale adherent cell culture.
• Demonstrated experience in bioreactor technologies with adherent cell bioreactors preferred.
• Experience designing closed systems and using automated cell processing instrumentation preferred.
• Experience managing junior scientists and collaborating with cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
• Previous experience authoring or reviewing CMC sections of regulatory submissions preferred.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for cell therapy products.

Working Conditions

• Primarily laboratory‑based, may require time in GMP spaces to aid technology transfers and troubleshooting.
• Requires prolonged periods of computer use for data analysis, documentation, and reporting.
• May involve lifting laboratory materials or equipment up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to navigate laboratory and GMP environments for experiments and coordination.