Downstream Associate Scientist (Contract 3 to 6 months)

This role is a contract position. Artis BioSolutions is seeking a motivated Process Development Downstream Associate Scientist to support the development and optimization of purification processes for advanced therapeutic modalities, including adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV), lentiviral vectors (LVV), and extracellular vesicles (EV).

The successful candidate will plan and execute laboratory experiments, analyze data, troubleshoot technical challenges, and contribute to process development activities, including continuous processing technologies.

This hands-on, laboratory-based role requires strong problem-solving skills, a collaborative mindset, and flexibility in scheduling to accommodate experimental needs, including occasional weekend work.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute downstream process development experiments for advanced therapeutic modalities, including AAV, LVV, and EV.
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot purification processes, including clarification, depth filtration, tangential flow filtration (TFF), and chromatography.
• Support the development and evaluation of continuous and intensified downstream processing technologies.
• Perform laboratory experiments to evaluate process parameters and improve product recovery, purity, yield, and quality.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot downstream processing equipment, including AKTA chromatography systems and TFF systems.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data, document results, and communicate findings to the project team.
• Prepare technical reports, experimental protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Collaborate with upstream process development, analytical development, and manufacturing teams to support project objectives and technology transfer.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with established safety and quality procedures.
• Support laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, inventory management, and preparation of buffers and solutions.
• Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling to support experimental activities, including occasional weekend work.
• Education
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 6+ years of relevant experience, or a master’s degree with 4+ years of relevant experience.
• Skills / Knowledge
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with downstream purification technologies, including clarification, filtration, and chromatography.
• Proven track record of success in biopharmaceutical process development.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills, with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document and present technical information effectively.
• Ability to handle confidential information and proprietary materials with professionalism and discretion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in downstream process development for advanced therapeutic modalities, including adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV), lentiviral vectors (LVV), and extracellular vesicles (EV).
• Hands-on experience with tangential flow filtration (TFF), depth filtration, and chromatography techniques, including affinity, ion exchange (IEX), and size exclusion chromatography (SEC).
• Experience operating and troubleshooting downstream processing equipment, including ÄKTA chromatography and TFF systems.
• Familiarity with continuous and intensified downstream purification technologies.
• Experience with process optimization, scale-up, and technology transfer to GMP manufacturing.
• Understanding of analytical methods used to evaluate process performance, product recovery, purity, and quality.
• Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DoE) and statistical approaches to process development.
• Familiarity with GMP requirements and regulatory expectations for biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Work environment: combination of laboratory and manufacturing
• On-site expectations: this is an on-site position
• Travel: 0% travel
• Schedule requirements: 9:00AM to 5:00PM
• Other requirements: flexibility to adjust working hours based on experimental needs, including some weekend work.
• Equal Employment Opportunity
• Artis BioSolutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment and providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees.