Research Associate I/II, Process Development (Contract)
BlueRock Therapeutics, Canada
Job Description
Description
Who is BlueRock?
BlueRock Therapeutics, a wholly-owned and independently operated subsidiary of Bayer AG, is a leading engineered cell therapy company using its unique cell+gene platform to direct cellular differentiation and genetically engineer cells to create a new generation of cellular medicines that address large patient populations suffering from neurological, cardiovascular, and immunology diseases.
The convergence of cell biology and genetic engineering is creating fundamental new ways to impact disease. Founded in 2016 to capitalize on these technological breakthroughs, we are advancing our novel cell+gene platform to develop, manufacture, and deliver an entirely new generation of authentic and engineered cell therapies across three therapeutic areas: neurology, cardiology, and immunology.
What Are We Doing?
Our foundational science harnesses the ability to create and then direct the differentiation of universal pluripotent stem cells into authentic, functional cells that can be used as allogeneic cellular therapies to treat a broad array of diseases. We can also further engineer these cells, enabling them to produce enzymes, antibodies, and other proteins for additional therapeutic benefit.
We are passionate about delivering on the promise of cellular and gene therapy, shaping the future of cellular medicine, and delivering new therapies to millions of patients with treatment options.
We are seeking individuals who are collaborative, thrive in a fun and dynamic culture, and are steadfast in the commitment to advance cutting-edge cellular therapies to impact patients’ lives.
Description of Position:
BlueRock Therapeutics is seeking a Research Associate I or II, Process Development based at our Toronto, Ontario location for a 6-month contract position. As a central development resource at the company, the Process Development team works closely with research, non-clinical, analytical, manufacturing, and quality teams. As a key contributor within this Function, this position will support the development, scale up, and tech transfer of the end-to-end manufacturing process for authentic and engineered cellular products. This is an outstanding opportunity for a talented and self-motivated individual to contribute to bringing cutting-edge cellular therapies to patients while gaining valuable career experience in Process Development.
Responsibilities:
- Actively contribute to development, implementation, characterization and successful execution of robust, state-of-the-art, scalable and automated cGMP compliant processes, including the manufacture of pluripotent stem cells, neurons, cardiomyocytes and other differentiated cell products.
- Perform cell-based characterization assays and identify appropriate ranges for (critical) process parameters to enhance product yield and quality.
- Document experimental data in a timely and accurate manner, and critically analyze experimental data to develop conclusions and provide recommendations.
- Present and effectively communicate scientific concepts/data/strategy in internal venues (technical meetings, project team meetings) as appropriate.
- Prepare, review and follow standard operating procedures and experiment plans.
- Perform laboratory duties in a safe and efficient fashion.
Requirements
- Minimum of a BS +0-2 (Research Associate I) or BS +2-5/MSc +0-3 (Research Associate II) years of experience in the life sciences, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, biological sciences, molecular amp; cell biology or related fields is required.
- Biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry experience is preferred.
- Extensive experience in adherent and suspension mammalian cell culture is required.
- Familiarity with cell characterization methods and technologies, such as flow cytometry, qPCR, immunoassays, and microscopy is preferred.
- Hands-on experience with bioreactors and cell processing technologies is preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to plan experiments and execute complex tasks is required.
- Practical knowledge of experimental design (e.g., DoE) and statistical data analysis is preferred
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, and proficiency in technical scientific writing are required.
- Excellent organizational skills are required.
- Able to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- You will work in a controlled laboratory environment.
- There is a risk of potential exposure to chemicals and biohazards consistent with somatic cell therapy culture.
- Working in the laboratory requires mandatory use of personal protective equipment.
Work Enviro