Research Associate, Process Development Upstream

avidbio; Tustin (CA); On-site; USD 58,400 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

Avid Bioservices is seeking a Research Associate in Process Development - Upstream to develop and optimize scalable mammalian cell culture processes and support tech transfer to Manufacturing. The role includes maintaining production equipment, researching new methods, and contributing to process improvements.

Responsibilities cover seed train development, bioreactor inoculation, sampling, feeding, and data analysis using Excel or JMP, with a focus on quality and regulatory traceability.

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Biological Science.
• 1–2 years of relevant industry experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize mammalian cell culture processes for recombinant protein production.
• Scale up and transfer processes to Manufacturing.
• Maintain and troubleshoot bioreactors and analytical equipment.
• Collect and analyze growth and production data; document findings.
• Prepare media and feed formulations from scratch.
• Collaborate with teams and communicate findings with stakeholders.
• Operate under GMP/regulatory traceability requirements.

Skills

Team player

Excellent communication

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biological Science

Tools

Excel

JMP

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 in Process Development - Upstream will develop and optimize scalable cell culture processes and contribute to transferring the process to Avid Manufacturing. In addition, the Research Associate will maintain production equipment and will research and implement new methods and technologies to enhance process operations.

Responsibilities:

• Responsible for mammalian cell culture process development and optimization including but not limited to recombinant protein production, cell adaptation to suspension or serum‑free conditions, media/feed screening comparing growth and productivity in various media, growing and maintaining cells in shake flasks, wave and stirred tank bioreactors. Responsibilities also include seed train development, production bioreactor inoculation, maintenance, sampling, and feeding, and cell culture harvest/clarification.
• Work with many different kinds of mammalian cell lines (CHO‑GS, CHO‑DG44, CHO‑M, CHO‑S, NSO, HEK, etc.) utilizing aseptic techniques, and apply a good understanding of the effect of general metabolic pathways (nutrient usage, expression system, etc.) physical (morphology, pH, osmolality, etc.) as well as mechanical (agitation speeds, oxygen and pH control, etc.) parameters on cell growth and recombinant protein production.
• Preparation of various cell culture media and feed formulations from scratch.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain cell culture equipment such as bioreactors and analyzers.
• Scale up and tech transfer cell culture and harvest processes to the Manufacturing department.
• Analyze growth, production, and nutrient usage data, create data spreadsheets and graphs in Excel or JMP, document data and findings for traceability and regulatory requirements, write technical and summary reports, generate slide decks, and lastly, communicate findings and participate in scientific discussions within the group and with clients.
• Work with minimal supervision on projects of routine or low to moderate complexity.
• Research and implement new methods and technologies to enhance operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• B.S. degree in a Biological Science
• Minimum of 1-2 years of relevant industry experience with demonstrated working knowledge of scientific principles.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This role is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless otherwise stated by Supervisor. Any scientific member can expect to work overtime, including during the weekends and holidays.

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 ensures 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 20 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.