Senior Research Associate, Process Development

Obsidian Therapeutics•Bedford, MA

36d•Onsite

About The Position

We're looking for a highly motivated, flexible, and collaborative Senior Research Associate with experience in, and a passion for-cell culture and process development. Based at our Bedford, MA location, you'll contribute to developing and characterizing manufacturing processes for cell therapy products targeting cancer. You'll be a vital part of a highly collaborative Technical Operations team, working to achieve Obsidian's vision by translating innovative science into medical breakthroughs for patients, starting with our lead program, OBX-115-a novel engineered tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy. This is a unique opportunity to expand the reach of TIL therapy and deliver transformative outcomes for patients suffering from solid tumor malignancies. As a contributor in a well-funded clinical company with blue-chip investors, field-leading advisors, best-in-class partners, and an experienced team, you'll help us build a dynamic, innovative, passionate, and successful organization focused on delivering transformative therapies in areas of greatest clinical need.

Requirements

BS or MS degree in chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, biology or relevant field, with 2-5 years of experience in biotech/pharma setting.
Experience with cell culture techniques, preferably T-cell (or other immune cells).
Experience with cell therapy process development in industry, preferably with some late-stage experience (development and/or characterization of pivotal or commercial process).
Excellent communication skills.
Scientific rigor and attention-to-detail in the execution, analysis, and troubleshooting of experiments.
Strong record-keeping and organizational skills, including an ability to manage multiple responsibilities in parallel.
Scientific curiosity and a track record of self-directed learning.

Nice To Haves

Basic knowledge of immunology and experience working with immune system cells.
Experience with culture of mammalian cells in small -scale and large-scale bioreactor systems (e.g. G-Rex, Xuri) and associated control strategies and automation.
Experience with design of experiment (DOE) approaches and statistical analysis of data; familiarity with JMP is desirable.

Responsibilities

Execute carefully planned process development and characterization experiments with engineered T-cells to define, optimize, and understand the processes for clinical manufacturing.
Support lab functions - including shared roles in maintaining reagent supplies, restocking consumables, equipment maintenance, and lab organization.
Perform in-process assays to measure cell number and characterize drug product using flow cytometry and other techniques.
Maintain cell cultures and cell banks as needed to support experimental work.
Interpret results, troubleshoot technical hurdles, and propose solutions to the team.
Present study results internally to project teams, management, and scientific teams.
Use independent judgement to solve problems within standard scope of work.
Contribute to completion of technical tasks to meet individual and team goals, working under minimal supervision for routine tasks, and direct supervision for more complex tasks.
Maintain excellent records of experiments in electronic lab notebooks in a timely manner.
Collaborate effectively across Obsidian organization.
Master techniques and protocols to effectively, efficiently, and independently execute routine technical tasks.
Develop an understanding of the experimental objectives and underlying science to effectively troubleshoot technical issues and report results.
Maintain a safe work environment in accordance with policies, procedures, and regulations.