Scientist III, Vector Production, Viral Vector Product Development

Job Description

Pay 40-48/h depending on experience.

Associate Scientist III, Viral Vector Production – Durham, NC.

• Assist with cell expansion, transfection, and bioreactor (Ambr
  250 to 50L stir tank) operations, routine in‑process sampling, and monitoring of process parameters.
• Participate in clarification, chromatography, and TFF/filtration steps; assemble, disassemble, and clean harvest train components; and stage materials.
• Coordinate sample plans across unit operations; label samples accurately and per SOPs; maintain chain‑of‑custody and timely delivery to QC/analytics.
• Perform setup, operation, and teardown of harvest trains, pumps, filters, tubing sets, single‑use systems, and ancillary equipment; support/perform pre‑use checks and readiness.
• Accurately record process data, batch records, and logbooks; compile and analyze data for trends, yields, and process performance; contribute to run summaries and troubleshooting.
• Follow SOPs and cGMP/cGLP principles as applicable; support investigations, maintain clean, safe work areas and proper documentation.
• Work closely with Manufacturing, Process Development, QC/Analytics, Supply Chain, and Facilities to ensure schedule adherence and issue resolution.
• Identify and implement improvements in sampling workflows, equipment readiness, and documentation practices.

• BS in Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, or related field with 4+ years of relevant experience OR MS with 2+ years experience in viral vector or biopharmaceutical production or process development.
• Strong track record of building successful relationships with supervisors, peers, suppliers, customers, partners and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work well with multiple individuals.
• Ability to work on several projects simultaneously and to switch focus as needed.
• Ability to keep accurate and organized records.

• Familiarity with AAV production including transient transfection, suspension platforms and core downstream unit operations.
• Experience with single‑use bioreactors (Am , Wave and 50L Stir Tank), TFF, depth filtration and affinity/ion exchange chromatography.
• Knowledge of in‑process analytics relevant to AAV (e.g., titer by qPCR/dPCR/ddPCR, capsid protein assays, residual DNA, endotoxin, %
  Empty/Full assays).
• General molecular/microbiology skills.
• Experience in aseptic technique.
• Track record of prioritizing multiple, complex, high‑priority tasks and ensuring timely delivery to meet project needs.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, especially with Microsoft Excel.
• Effective communication, collaboration, and problem‑solving skills in cross‑functional settings.

• Direct experience with AAV production (upstream and downstream) at lab or pilot scale.
• Experience with analytical assays related to AAV.
• Hands‑on experience with upstream bioreactors including Ambr
  250, Wave, and 50L stir tanks.

The duties of this role are generally conducted in a lab environment. Employees must be able, with or without an accommodation to: lift 15 pounds unassisted; work comfortably in a controlled environment with and around biological, infectious, and hazardous materials; gown/degown PPE; use a computer; engage in communications via phone, video, and electronic messaging; engage in problem solving and non‑linear thought, analysis, and dialogue;

collaborate with others; maintain general availability during standard business hours.

The Planet Group of Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.