Are you ready to play a vital role in transforming the future of neurological disease treatment? An innovative, clinical-stage biopharma company is seeking a talented Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development, to join their fast-growing team in Houston on a contract basis. This is a unique opportunity to advance your career in gene therapy, supporting a rapidly expanding pipeline and world-class manufacturing environment.
Position Title: Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development
Location: Houston, TX
Rate: $35-40/hr.
Duration: 6 months + potential extension
About the Opportunity
This hands-on technical role supports the design, execution, and optimization of breakthrough gene therapy products. Reporting to the Associate Director, Downstream Process Development, you will contribute across a spectrum of viral vector purification activities - empowering the company’s pipeline from research through clinical and commercial production.
Be part of a collaborative and mission-driven culture that is unwavering in its commitment to patients, innovation, and scientific excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute routine and complex viral vector purification, from buffer preparation and sampling to small-scale purification runs and GMP batch execution.
- Support process development operations including development and toxicology production runs, reagent prep, inventory control, and lab upkeep.
- Draft and review critical documentation, including SOPs, batch production records, process forms, and laboratory records, adhering to best practices in biotechnology and compliance.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with analytical and upstream teams to define and deliver critical quality attributes and process performance for AAV purification.
- Maintain accurate laboratory protocols and data capture, participating in inventory and equipment management, waste disposal, and lab safety procedures.
- Stay engaged with the latest advances in viral vector process development and proactively contribute to the success of the process development team.
What We’re Looking For
- BSc in Biological Science or related discipline
- 2+ years’ experience in a biotechnology or biopharma environment preferred
- Practical experience in basic laboratory operations related to virus/protein purification, buffer preparation, and aseptic technique
- Familiarity with chromatography and filtration purification methods; AKTA chromatography experience preferred
- Hands-on experience with viral vector bioprocessing, especially AAV, is an advantage
- Comfortable working in regulated environments (GLP/GMP); GMP experience is a plus
- Understanding of bioprocess documentation (SOPs, batch records) and regulatory expectations (FDA/EMA/cGMP a plus)
- Proven team player with strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Tech-savvy with proficiency in MS Office, accurate documentation practices, and attention to detail
- Ability to work flexibly, lift up to 25 lbs frequently (50 lbs occasionally), and thrive in a laboratory setting
Why Join Us?
- Grow with a forward-thinking company at the cutting edge of gene therapy for neurological diseases
- Collaborate with industry experts and contribute to life-changing therapies
- Advance your skills in a highly supportive, innovation-focused culture
- Be part of a Houston-based organization with an end-to-end manufacturing footprint, setting the stage for personal and professional growth
Take your next step in the gene therapy revolution. Apply your expertise in downstream process development to truly make a difference for patients and families facing rare diseases.
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