Associate Director, PD Upstream

Forge Biologics•Columbus, OH

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Director leads scientific and operational activities supporting upstream process development for viral vector production. This role manages a team of scientists and research associates who design, execute, and optimize upstream processes, ensuring scalability and successful technology transfer into GMP manufacturing. The Associate Director provides senior-level technical leadership across complex development initiatives and multiple programs, and drives technical strategy, process innovation, and manufacturing readiness in collaboration with cross-functional teams. The role also provides mentorship and coaching, authors high-impact CMC documents, supports regulatory filings, and serves as a cross-functional lead on global program teams. The position works in both laboratory and typical office environments at Forge Biologics’ Columbus, Ohio facility.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
Proven expertise in mammalian suspension cell culture, transfection, and viral production at bench and pilot scales.
Strong understanding of DOE methodology and statistical data analysis.
Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
Prior experience supporting technology transfer to GMP manufacturing.
Experience managing junior team members.
Prior project management experience.

Nice To Haves

Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
Experience with rAAV or lentiviral production platforms.
Familiarity with cGMP principles and regulatory expectations for biologics.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate in a cross-functional matrixed environment.
Experience managing senior team members.

Responsibilities

Lead day-to-day upstream process development operations, including experimental design, execution, and data interpretation for viral vector production.
Serve as a senior-level technical expert and upstream leader for complex development initiatives.
Independently manage multiple programs or initiatives, maintaining technical excellence, scientific rigor, and regulatory alignment.
Manage, mentor, and coach scientists and research associates, developing technical capabilities and reinforcing a culture of quality, safety, and continuous learning.
Set technical strategy and ensure compliance with regulatory expectations and manufacturing readiness in collaboration with MS&T, QC, and GMP Manufacturing teams.
Drive innovation in upstream process design.
Author high-impact CMC documents, support regulatory filings, and serve as a cross-functional lead in global program teams.
Influence team culture through scientific leadership, collaboration, and clear communication.
Partner with Downstream, Analytical, and Manufacturing teams to support process integration and technology transfer.
Oversee development of scalable upstream processes and promote process improvements aligned with company goals, timelines, and budgets while maintaining scientific rigor and data integrity.
Serve as a subject matter expert for upstream operations and provide troubleshooting and optimization guidance.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision insurance beginning on the first day, with 90% of premiums covered for the employee and family.
Paid time off.
12 weeks of fully paid parental leave.
Annual bonus opportunities for full-time team members.
401(k) with company match.
Employee discounts, including childcare and dependent care savings.
Onsite fitness facility.
Mental health counseling and financial planning services through the Employee Assistance Program.
Employer-paid short- and long-term disability coverage.
Fully stocked kitchen with free snacks and beverages.
Professional development resources, training, and mentorship programs.