Scientist

Legend Biotech US • Philadelphia, PA

12d • $96,267 - $126,351 • Onsite

About The Position

Legend Biotech is seeking an experienced Scientist to join the Upstream team, Vector Biology in Philadelphia, with a focus on in-vivo CAR-T programs. This independent contributor role will own hands-on execution and data-driven development of lentiviral vector upstream processes, including seed train strategy and scale-up from small-scale to 40-Liter bioreactor runs. This Scientist position will closely work with Molecular Biology, Downstream, Analytical and Technical development partners to ensure end-to-end process alignment, support comparability strategy and readiness, and enable efficient, high-quality technology transfer.

Requirements

• MS degree with 4+ years; or PhD degree with 1 year’s prior industry experience in Bioengineering, Virology, Cell biology, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Hands-on experience in viral vector production, and characterization.
• Experience with mammalian suspension cell culture, transient transfection, and upstream bioprocess development.
• Strong technical background in molecular biology techniques, including plasmid construction, PCR/qPCR/dPCR based assay, and cell line development.
• Demonstrated ability to design, execute, analyze, and troubleshoot complex experiments in a fast-paced R&D environment.
• Experience scaling upstream processes from shake flasks to bioreactor system (up to 50 L preferred).
• Experience supporting gene therapy platform development, preferably involving lentiviral vector applications.
• Basic understanding of upstream process development and their impact on product quality.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data and recommend next steps.
• Proficiency in maintaining accurate experimental records and documenting data using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) to ensure data traceability.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with experience preparing technical reports and presenting scientific findings to cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Adaptable, self-motivated, and eager to learn new technologies and experimental approaches.

Responsibilities

• Define and optimize the upstream process from shake flask through bioreactors, scaling to 40-L with reproducible performance and clear rational for operating parameters.
• Execute and optimize lentiviral vector production workflows supporting in-vivo CAR-T application, including transient transfection optimization and/or stable cell line optimization.
• Perform media optimization, feeding strategy development, and process control adjustments to improve yield, quality, scalability and robustness.
• Develop and execute fit-for-purpose studies to support scalability and readiness.
• Collaborate with internal teams within Vector Biology and coordinate cross-functional activities to support technology transfer to internal Technical Development team.
• Contribute technical input to cross-functional discussions on experimental design, comparability strategy, and progression of exploratory work into formal process development.
• Independently plan, perform, analyze, and interpret experiments with minimal supervision.
• Deliver clear data summaries and evidence-based recommendations to Vector Biology and cross-functional teams.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, study summaries, and slide decks to support decisions on the upstream process development.
• Adhere to BSL-2 biosafety standards and Legend policies, maintaining accurate and compliant electronic lab notebooks and documentation.
• Ensure experimental reproducibility and data integrity through detailed and organized record-keeping.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with a company match that vests fully on day one
• Eight (8) weeks of paid parental leave after just three (3) months of employment
• Paid time off policy that includes vacation time, personal time, sick time, floating holidays, and eleven (11) company holidays
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Life and AD&D insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Legal assistance
• Supplemental plans such as pet, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance
• Voluntary commuter benefits
• Family planning and care resources
• Well-being initiatives
• Peer-to-peer recognition programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level