Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development

Job Title: Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development

Introduction to role

Are you ready to make a difference in gene therapy? As an Engineer II in the Upstream Process Development team, you will play a crucial role in developing adeno-associated virus (AAV) production processes. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to design, optimize, scale up, and transfer upstream processes for viral vector production. Your work will directly impact the advancement of gene therapy applications.

Accountabilities

• Support Upstream Development including the design and execution of laboratory experiments to develop and optimize upstream processes for AAV production, including cell culture, transfection, production, and harvest/lysis.
• Troubleshoot process-related challenges and implement corrective actions to optimize production yields and maintain product quality.
• Perform routine Upstream laboratory tasks such as shake flask and bioreactor sampling and cell maintenance.
• Manage and maintain lab equipment and supplies, ensuring a safe and efficient work environment. This includes regular lab cleaning, equipment maintenance, and supply procurement.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, utilizing statistical tools to drive scientific decision-making and process improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Downstream, Process Analytics, and Research.
• Support the transfer of upstream processes to cGMP manufacturing.
• Document experiments and results clearly and accurately in production files and electronic laboratory notebooks; Summarize and present results to the broader team.
• Support the drafting of process development reports, process descriptions, and tech transfer documents.

Essential Skills/Experience

• BS or MS degree in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field
• Minimum of 2+ years of relevant experience in the biotech industry
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique
• High level of proficiency in MS Office software
• The duties of this role are generally conducted in a lab environment. As is typical of a lab-based role, employees must be able, with or without an accommodation to: lift/carry 15/30 pounds unassisted/assisted; 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.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Experience with bioreactor set up and operation
• Experience with AAV or other viral vectors and transient transfection
• Experience with statistical analysis and design of experiment (DOE)

At AstraZeneca, we thrive on tackling the unknowns. Our dynamic environment is filled with opportunities to learn and grow. We embrace change and take calculated risks to bring new medicines to patients. Our collaborative approach ensures that every challenge is met with resilience and innovation. Here, your work will be valued and visible across all therapy areas.

Ready to join us on this exciting journey? Apply now!

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $86,000 to $129,000. However, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.  In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles) or to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. 

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.