Research Associate, Downstream Process Development

Avid Bioservices, Inc.; Tustin (CA); On-site; USD 58,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

Avid Bioservices, Inc. in California invites applications for a Research Associate, Process Development Downstream to support laboratory activities in downstream development for monoclonal antibodies and related biologics.

You will lead experiments, analyze data, document results, and collaborate across teams to prepare scalable downstream processes for pilot and GMP manufacturing. This on-site role offers growth, hands-on learning, and a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field with 1-2 years of biopharmaceutical industry experience.
• Strong understanding of downstream processing principles, experimental design, and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead downstream process development studies, including chromatography screening, process optimization, and scale-up.
• Perform in-process and routine analytical testing (HPLC-based assays, A280) for development activities.
• Independently execute downstream unit operations using chromatography systems, filtration equipment.
• Support process scale-up, technology transfer, and manufacturing operations with robust workflows.
• Compile, analyze, interpret, and present data; author technical reports and client-facing documentation.

Skills

Downstream processing

Experimental design

Data analysis

Bioprocess development

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering / Biochemical Engineering / Biotechnology

Tools

HPLC

Chromatography systems

Filtration equipment

A280 spectrophotometry

Job description

Looking to join a passionate team dedicated to developing and manufacturing life‑saving biopharmaceuticals? Avid Bioservices is a leading clinical and commercial biologics CDMO focused on creating innovative solutions to meet the needs of our clients and improve patient outcomes.

Your Role:

The Research Associate, Process Development Downstream will provide laboratory support for Process Development by assisting in the downstream process and/or method development. The Research Associate may be assigned various tasks within the department and outside the department as needed.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) and/or technical lead for downstream process development and purification of monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and related biologics. Responsibilities include buffer formulation and preparation, chromatography process development and optimization, filtration development, and routine process execution.
• Lead downstream process development studies, including chromatography screening, process optimization, and scale-up activities to support client programs from early development through commercialization.
• Perform and oversee in-process and routine analytical testing to support downstream development activities, including protein concentration determination (A280), HPLC-based assays, and other relevant analytical methods.
• Independently execute downstream unit operations using chromatography systems, filtration equipment, and associated process analytical tools with minimal supervision.
• Support process scale-up, technology transfer, and manufacturing operations by developing robust buffer preparation strategies and downstream processing workflows suitable for pilot and GMP manufacturing environments.
• Compile, analyze, interpret, and present experimental data. Author technical reports, development summaries, protocols, and client-facing documentation, and present findings during internal project reviews and client meetings.
• Lead troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process performance, robustness, productivity, and scalability.
• Contribute to the evaluation, implementation, and validation of emerging technologies, process analytics, laboratory automation platforms, and process intensification strategies to improve development efficiency.
• Experience with laboratory automation, process intensification, and data analytics is highly desirable.
• Perform other duties and project-related responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree with 1-2 years of relevant biopharmaceutical industry experience, in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
• Candidates should possess a strong understanding of downstream processing principles, experimental design, data analysis, and bioprocess development methodologies.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This role is a full-time onsite position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday unless otherwise stated by Supervisor. The employee must also have the ability to work overtime and/or weekends when necessary.

Compensation:

We offer competitive compensation packages for this role, including a base salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off.

The compensation range for this role is $58,400 - $73,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, we offer opportunities for career growth and development as well as a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Who you are:

• You have a "bring it on!" team player approach and an unshakable positive attitude, always ready to tackle anything that comes your way.
• Your written and verbal skills are out of this world, and you communicate with clarity and confidence.
• You have exceptional multitasking skills and an unparalleled attention to detail that ensure the smooth running of everything.
• You are a master at building relationships, capable of establishing connections with anyone, be it team members, clients, vendors, or suppliers.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

In this dynamic role, expect a blend of regular activities like sitting, standing, and walking, with occasional physically engaging tasks such as lifting objects up to 25 pounds. The work environment might expose you to electrical shocks, toxic chemicals, vibrations, or loud noise levels occasionally. However, reasonable accommodations are available to enable individuals with different abilities to perform effectively, ensuring a supportive and adaptable work setting. Your visual acuity, including close, distance, and color vision, will be essential in navigating through the diverse day-to-day demands of this position.