Upstream Scientist

ZP Group • Frederick, MD

70d • $80,000 - $120,000

About The Position

Piper Companies is seeking a highly skilled Upstream Scientist to support a leading pharmaceutical organization's clinical and commercial biologics manufacturing operations. This onsite role is embedded within a GMP-regulated environment and focuses on upstream process development, scale-up, and technology transfer of mammalian cell culture processes. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience with bioreactor systems and a strong foundation in upstream unit operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in relevant scientific discipline.
• 3-7 years of experience in upstream process development or technology transfer in biologics manufacturing (CDMO/CMO or Pharma setting).
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and bioreactor operations (3L, AMBR250, or similar).
• Strong understanding of upstream unit operations, including cell culture scale-up, harvest, and process monitoring.
• Proficiency with MVDA tools and data-driven process analysis.
• Experience supporting tech transfer and troubleshooting in a cGMP manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) documentation and upstream regulatory requirements.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support upstream activities for clinical and commercial biologics products.
• Execute cell culture scale-up and technology transfer of upstream processes to GMP manufacturing.
• Operate and troubleshoot bioreactor systems (e.g., 3L, AMBR250, or similar platforms).
• Monitor and evaluate process performance using multivariate data analysis (MVDA) tools.
• Conduct experimental studies to support process characterization, optimization, and tech transfer.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve upstream process and equipment issues.
• Document procedures and results in compliance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
• Author and review technical reports; contribute to regulatory documentation and internal presentations.

Benefits

• CIGNA Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401k through ADP
• 10 PTO days
• 5 Holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees