Sr. Scientist, Viral Vector

Kite Pharma•Foster City, CA

18h•Onsite

About The Position

Kite Pharma is seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist with deep expertise in lentiviral and viral vector technologies to support next‑generation gene and cell therapy programs. The successful candidate will play a critical role in leading a vector core team to produce viral vectors on a regular basis supporting research activities throughout the organization. In addition, they will initiate and design experiments for the optimization, and characterization of viral delivery platforms. They will work cross-functionally interfacing with teams in discovery, analytical development and process development. This role is ideal for a hands‑on scientist who combines strong technical leadership with managerial and leadership skills who can drive complex projects in a fast‑paced, collaborative biotech environment.

Requirements

Advanced scientific degree (MD, PharmD, PhD) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Bioengineering, or a related field, with 2+ years of relevant postdoctoral or industry experience OR Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Bioengineering, or a related field, with 6+ years of relevant scientific experience OR Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Bioengineering, or a related field, with 8+ years of relevant scientific experience

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Bioengineering, or a related field, with 3+ years of relevant postdoctoral or industry experience
Demonstrated, hands‑on expertise in lentiviral vector design, optimization, production, and transduction
Strong background in viral gene delivery for cell or gene therapy applications
Strong leadership and managerial skills
Proven ability to work in a highly matrixed environment
Deep knowledge of mammalian cell culture, transfection/transduction methods, and molecular biology techniques (e.g., ddPCR, qPCR, flow cytometry, Western blot, ELISA)
Proven ability to independently design and execute complex experiments
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Experience supporting CAR‑T or engineered cell therapy programs
Knowledge of non‑lentiviral viral systems (e.g., retroviral, AAV vectors)
Experience with scale‑up, process development, or tech transfer of viral vectors
Experience with high throughput screening, automation, and use of liquid handers (Biomek, TECAN etc)
Experience with viral vector producer cell line improvement and optimization strategies.
Track record of publications, patents, or successful program contributions

Responsibilities

Lead and manage a vector core team to produce lenti and retroviral vectors supporting Research teams and activities in the organization.
Lead experimental design and execution for lentiviral and viral vector–based gene delivery strategies supporting CAR‑T, TCR‑T, and emerging gene therapy modalities
Exceptional record keeping and Lab information management system policy adherence
Develop, optimize, and characterize viral vector production, for in vivo and ex vivo lentiviral systems
Apply deep understanding of viral biology, vector engineering, and gene expression control to improve efficiency, safety, and scalability
Serve as a technical expert for viral delivery, providing guidance to discovery, translational, and process development teams
Collaborate cross‑functionally with Research teams, core groups, analytical development, process development, and regulatory partners
Interpret complex datasets, troubleshoot experimental challenges, and drive data‑driven decision making
Author technical reports, protocols, and contribute to IND‑enabling documentation as needed
Present results at internal forums and external scientific meetings
Mentor direct reports and contribute to building best practices within the viral vector group