Upstream Processing Scientist - I (Assistant)

TALENT Software Services; West Point (PA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

TALENT Software Services seeks a Bioprocess Scientist to perform lab-scale upstream processing and assist with vaccine product development. The role emphasizes aseptic handling, bioreactor operations, and cell culture in a fast-paced team.

The candidate will prepare reagents, monitor experiments, and analyze data while maintaining rigorous records in GLP-compliant environments. Onsite work and occasional flexible hours are expected.

Qualifications

• B.S. or higher in biology, bio/chemistry, or related field.
• Six months of upstream bioprocessing lab experience (bioreactors for live virus culture, bacterial/mammalian cell culture).
• Knowledge of aseptic technique, sterile pipetting, and lab safety.

Responsibilities

• Able to support onsite work and occasional off-hour/weekend hours (not typically exceeding 40 hours/week).
• Communicate effectively with client staff and document results.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and culture media for experiments.
• Perform lab-scale upstream processing and basic purification support for vaccines and intermediates.
• Set up process equipment for lab-scale experiments.
• Conduct in-process monitoring assays and data reporting.
• Maintain accurate records and adhere to GLP guidelines.
• Work independently and as part of a team with meticulous attention to detail.

Skills

Lab skills

Aseptic techniques

Bioreactor operations

Cell culture

Cell-based assays

Solution preparation

Excel formulas

Computer literacy

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Teamwork

Record keeping

Education

B.S. in Biology, Bio/chemistry, Bio/chemical Engineering, or related science or engineering field

Tools

Excel

Job description

• B.S. in Biology, Bio/chemistry, Bio/chemical Engineering, or related science or engineering field.
• At least six months of laboratory experience in upstream-focused bioprocessing (e.g. bioreactor operations for live virus culture, bacterial fermentation and/or mammalian cell culture). The ideal candidate would possess:
• General laboratory skills, experience with aseptic manipulations, pipettes
• Experience in operating bioreactors
• Experience in culturing microbial and/or mammalian cells
• Experience performing basic cell-based assays (e.g. cell counting, optical density, metabolite analysis)
• Experience with solution, reagent, buffer preparation
• Experience using formulas and linking spreadsheets in Excel
• Highly computer literate. Capable of quickly learning and adapting to new computer programs. Strong computer, scientific, and organizational skills
• Excellent and proactive communication (oral and written) and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, self-motivation, adaptability, and a positive attitude
• Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, keep accurate records, follow instructions, and comply with company policies. Additional Preferred Skills: Basic downstream / primary recovery operations (e.g. Lysis, Centrifugation, Filtration) Responsibilities: Scientist responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Able to support onsite work and support occasional off-hour and/or weekend work (not to typically exceed 40 hours per week cumulative)
• Communicate effectively and promptly with client staff members
• Prepare laboratory reagents, solutions, and culture media
• Perform lab-scale upstream processing and needs-based purification support of vaccine products and process intermediates
• Setup process equipment for lab-scale experiments
• Perform in-process monitoring assays
• Analyze, collate, track, and report data back to client staff members
• Maintain records and test results following good laboratory practices (GLP)
• Work independently and efficiently
• Document work clearly and perform tests accurately