Senior Scientist, Cell Science

SystImmune, Inc.; Bothell (WA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% health premiums

STD/LTD benefits

401(k) match

PTO 15 days

11 paid holidays

Job summary

SystImmune, Inc. is seeking a Senior Scientist in the Cell Science Department in Redmond, WA to develop and optimize CHO-based production processes for biotherapeutics. The role emphasizes hands-on mammalian cell culture and collaboration with cross-functional teams to advance asset discovery and development.

Ideal candidates hold a Ph.D. in Cell Biology with 5+ years in biotech, and demonstrate expertise in expression systems, assay development, and regulatory awareness for IND filings.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology or related field with 5+ years in pharma/biotech.
• Strong background in recombinant protein expression and cell-line development.
• Experience with mammalian upstream process development and bioreactor operations.
• Familiarity with FDA/global IND regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute cell line development workflows including vector design and clone screening.
• Perform mammalian cell culture experiments under sterile conditions.
• Develop and optimize expression systems with promoters and selection markers.
• Screen and characterize clones for productivity and product quality.
• Collaborate with downstream teams to execute production batches and tech transfers.
• Manage multiple projects and contribute to regulatory documentation.
• Prepare process transfer documents and cGMP documentation.
• Work with R&D and manufacturing teams in China as needed.
• Occasional weekend/holiday shifts and other duties as assigned.

Skills

Cell line development

Mammalian cell culture

Bioprocess development

Upstream processes

IND regulations knowledge

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Cell Biology

Job description

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Bothell, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development platforms, focusing on bi‑specific, multi‑specific antibodies, and antibody‑drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications. Alongside ongoing clinical trials. SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discover and IND‑enabling stages, representing cutting‑edge biologics development. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success.

The Senior Scientist in the Cell Science Department is responsible for the development and optimization of CHO‑based processes for the production of biotherapeutics. This role requires broad expertise and the ability to contribute to both drug discovery and development projects. A strong interest in bench work and hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture is essential.

This position requires a full‑time onsite presence at our Redmond, WA location.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute cell line development workflows, including vector design, transfection, clone screening, and selection for stable expression.
• Perform cell culture experiments involving mammalian cells (e.g., CHO cells) under sterile, aseptic conditions.
• Develop and optimize expression systems, including promoters, selection markers, and gene amplification strategies for high‑yield production.
• Screen and characterize clones for productivity, stability, growth characteristics, and product quality attributes using molecular and biochemical assays.
• Collaborate with project teams and downstream process development scientists to execute protocols, experimental plans, critical production batches, and technology transfers.
• Manage and prioritize multiple projects while supporting and coordinating with other departments to advance company objectives and develop scalable, robust culture processes.
• Write and review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and technical reports for regulatory filings.
• Prepare process transfer documents and cGMP documentation to support the successful implementation of process technologies in clinical and commercial manufacturing operations.
• Collaborate with R&D and the manufacturing team in China, participating in meetings and providing technical support as needed.
• Availability to work weekend and holiday shifts, as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology or a related field, with 5+ years of relevant experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Strong scientific background in recombinant protein expression, cell line development, cellular metabolism, and media optimization.
• Experience in both early‑and‑late‑stage bioreactor operations, mammalian stable cell line development, and upstream process development is preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in advanced technologies for cell line development, with a focus on antibody production.
• Strong knowledge of FDA regulations and other global health authority requirements related to Investigational New Drug (IND) applications, particularly those concerning single stable clone selection and characterization.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proven ability to perform effectively under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and adapt to shifting project priorities and requirements.
• Experience with high‑throughput automated workstations for clone selection is highly desirable.

Compensation and Benefits:

The expected base salary range for this position is $90,000 - $140,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s qualifications, experience, and skills.

While most offers typically fall within the low to mid‑point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.

SystImmune is a leading and well‑funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.

We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success.

SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.