Scientist, Biotherapies Process Development and Cellular Analytics-1

Vitalant•Phoenix, AZ

4d•$94,182 - $126,745•Onsite

About The Position

Working under limited direction, this role translates client and internal scientific objectives into executable study plans, budgets, and timelines, conducts hands‑on laboratory work, analyzes complex cellular data, and delivers high‑quality reports and recommendations to clients and internal leadership. This position plays a critical role in enabling client studies ranging from early research to IND-enabling and clinical studies to support development and commercialization of advanced therapies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Immunology, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, or related scientific discipline, required.
Advanced training and applied scientific knowledge in cellular and molecular biology, immunology, and biotherapeutic development, required.
MS or PhD preferred.
8 years of related biotechnology industry experience in combination with a Bachelors degree, reduced to 5 years with a Masters Degree, and 2 years with a PhD, required.
Hands‑on experience in the biotechnology or biopharmaceutical industry.
Proven, hands-on experience in cell therapy process development and cellular analytics.
Demonstrated experience in the design, execution, optimization, and validation of analytical assays using advanced platforms, including: Flow cytometry (multicolor panel design, assay development, data analysis) Immunoassays (ELISA, multiplex platforms) Microscopy and imaging-based assays Molecular techniques (qPCR and/or ddPCR, NGS, or related methods)
Demonstrated experience supporting studies across the full development lifecycle, from early research and IND-enabling studies through clinical development and/or commercialization.
Proficiency in cell culture, cell processing, aseptic technique, and cryopreservation, including work with human‑derived cellular materials and cryogenic systems.
Technical expertise in flow cytometry, ELISA and plate‑based assays, and molecular assays (qPCR and/or ddPCR).
Strong commitment to laboratory safety, including safe handling of human samples, chemicals, and cryogens; strict adherence to SOPs, documentation practices, and quality standards.
Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and timelines in a fast‑paced environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated ability to support scientific reporting, data interpretation, and client presentations.
Practical, applied scientific mindset with strong focus on execution, data quality, and client outcomes.
Demonstrated ability to generate, statistically evaluate, and interpret complex cellular and molecular datasets, translating results into actionable conclusions.
High attention to detail with a strong commitment to data integrity and accurate documentation.
Professional, collaborative approach to working with cross‑functional internal teams and external clients.
Working knowledge of IND‑related scientific and regulatory expectations.
Ability to work independently under limited direction, while maintaining confidentiality and professional discretion.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with external clients (biotech, pharma, academic, or research organizations), preferred.
Experience with gene analysis and engineering (transfection, transduction) as well as CAR-T or related engineered cell therapies, preferred.

Responsibilities

Partner with the VP, Biotherapies and Principal Scientist following client engagement meetings to evaluate study objectives and scientific feasibility.
Design, plan, and manage client-sponsored studies, including definition of experimental approach, milestones, timelines, and deliverables.
Conduct hands on laboratory work to execute studies, including preparation and processing of human-derived cellular material under approved research protocols and SOPs.
Apply end-to-end understanding of cell therapy development to make practical, data-driven recommendations for process optimization and analytical strategy.