Scientist II, Downstream Viral Vector Process Development

GeneFab; Alameda (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

GeneFab is seeking an experienced Downstream Process Development Scientist/Lead focused on viral vector purification for in vivo gene therapy. This role balances hands-on process optimization with cross-functional leadership and client-facing responsibilities.

You will design, optimize, and scale purification processes for AAV and lentiviral vectors, analyze data, mentor development associates, and collaborate across Upstream, Analytical, and Manufacturing teams to ensure robust, compliant, and

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Proven expertise in downstream process development for viral vectors, with a focus on AAV and lentiviral vectors.
• Hands-on experience with chromatography, filtration, TFF and other downstream processing techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Excellent communication and collaboration in a team environment.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and quality standards related to biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Experience with formulation science preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and scale-up downstream processes for purification of viral vectors, with a focus on in vivo gene therapy products and lentiviral vectors.
• Execute experimental plans, analyze data, and provide insightful recommendations to improve process efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Upstream Process Development, Analytical Development, and Manufacturing, to ensure seamless integration of processes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges in downstream processes, ensuring robust and scalable solutions.
• Present internally and to client with project status updates.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory guidelines to contribute to the continuous improvement of processes and compliance.
• Provide direction and leadership to development associates as the team expands.

Skills

Downstream development

Viral vectors

Team leadership

Data analysis

Chromatography

Regulatory awareness

Cross-functional collab

Education

PhD or MS in Chemical/Biochemical Eng or Biotech

Tools

Chromatography

Filtration

TFF

Job description

About the role

GeneFab is seeking an experienced Downstream Process Development Scientist/Lead focused on viral vector purification (AAV and Lentiviral) for in vivo gene therapy. It is a technical, project-based role within a CRDMO environment that balances hands-on process optimization with cross-functional leadership and client-facing responsibilities.

What you’ll do

• Design, optimize, and scale-up downstream processes for the purification of viral
  vectors, with a focus on in vivo gene therapy products and lentiviral vectors.
• Execute experimental plans, analyze data, and provide insightful
  recommendations to improve process efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Upstream Process
  Development, Analytical Development, and Manufacturing, to ensure seamless
  integration of processes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges in downstream processes, ensuring
  robust and scalable solutions.
• Present internally and to client with project status updates
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory guidelines
  to contribute to the continuous improvement of processes and compliance.
• Provide direction and leadership to development associates as the team expands.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering,
  Biotechnology, or related field with a minimum of 3 years (Ph.D.) or 5 years
  (Master’s) of relevant industry experience
• Proven expertise in downstream process development for viral vectors, with a
  focus on AAV and lentiviral vectors.
• Hands-on experience with chromatography, filtration, TFF and other downstream
  processing techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex
  data sets.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team
  environment.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and quality standards related to
  biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Experience with formulation science preferred