About this role
About the Role We are seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist I with extensive AAV gene therapy manufacturing experience to develop state-of-the-art downstream purification processes for next-generation AAV gene therapy. This role will execute early-stage process development focused on developability of lead candidates and platform process development for existing and novel AAV capsids and cargo vectors. The position is onsite in San Diego, CA. What You'll Do
- Lead and manage a 3-5 person downstream process team and provide technical support, training, and SME knowledge to assist with the professional development of direct reports.
- Coordinate activities with associates across upstream process and analytical teams.
- Develop strategies in collaboration with Disease Areas and partner with various line functions to support early drug discovery from target selection and validation through lead compound selection and developability assessment.
- Serve as a subject matter expert to transfer manufacturing process knowledge to Technical Research & Development team and advance pipeline programs into clinical phases.
- Lead effort and work collaboratively with Technical Research & Development to develop innovative and cost-effective downstream processes for next-generation AAV.
- Manage multiple project workflow to ensure timely delivery.
- Prepare written reports conforming to defined documentation practices including electronic lab notebook.
- Other related duties as assigned. What We're Looking For
- PhD in bioprocessing, biochemical engineering, gene therapy or related field with 3+ years of relevant process development experience in biotechnology/pharmaceutical environment.
- Experience in people management.
- Knowledge of downstream purification processes including affinity and ion-exchange chromatography with hands-on experience with AKTA purification systems.
- Technical proficiency, creativity, and independent thought.
- Effective communication skills to convey scientific concepts to research scientists and cross-functional collaborators.
- Strong organization and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced and matrix environment. Nice to Have
- Experience in AAV gene therapy.
- Experience with viral gene therapy. Compensation & Benefits
- Salary ranges: Principal Scientist I: $108,500 - $201,500 per year; Principal Scientist II: $119,700 - $222,300 per year.