Senior Research Associate - Cell Therapy Process Development

JOB PURPOSE

Sana Biotechnology has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Research Associate within the Cell Therapy Process Development group. The Senior Research Associate will focus on the development of a novel chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T) cell manufacturing process. Under the supervision of the process development lead, the candidate will perform experiments to support the development of multiple unit operations including cell selection and expansion, gene editing, and cryopreservation. The Senior Research Associate is expected to closely collaborate with multiple teams including Analytical Development.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform small- and large-scale cell therapy experiments using primary cells across multiple unit operations including cell selection, expansion, gene editing, cell harvest and cryopreservation
• Perform in-process analysis of samples including cell counting and metabolite analysis
• Document all experimental work in an electronic laboratory notebook
• Analyze data and present conclusions to a multidisciplinary group
• Draft technical documents including reports, operating procedures and master batch records
• Execute various parts of established processes by adhering to established procedures

QUALIFICATIONS

Basic Qualifications

• BSc. in Biology, Biochemistry or related field plus 4 yrs or MSc. plus 1-2 yrs or equivalent combination of education and work experience
• >2 yrs of experience with mammalian cell culture
• Excellent aseptic cell culture technique and good scientific method
• Detail-oriented with good problem-solving, technical writing and verbal communication skills
• Ability to effectively work in multidisciplinary teams, meet deadlines, and prioritize multiple projects
• Aptitude for working in a self-driven, performance/results-oriented, fast-paced matrix environment
• Ability to engage in crucial conversations - providing and receiving feedback
• The candidate should be a team player, highly organized with excellent communication skills, demonstrate curiosity and scientific rigor and excellent problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working on a clinical or commercial cell therapy manufacturing process
• Knowledge of immunology with focus on T cell biology
• Experience with cell therapy unit operations including:
  • Cell selection
  • T cell culture
  • Viral and non-viral gene editing methods
  • Cell washing and harvesting
  • Cryopreservation
• Experience with analytical methods including:
  • Cell counts and viability using automated cell counters
  • Media metabolite analysis
  • Flow cytometry
  • Cell-based assays, including Incucyte system
• Demonstrate technical curiosity and a continuous drive to learn new skills
• Experience following and drafting controlled documents
• Knowledge of R, Python, JMP, Spotfire, Benchling and FlowJo software

WORKING CONDITIONS

• This position requires handling of human blood products
• Some weekend work required
• Work in a laboratory environment approximately 75% of the time

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Able to lift up to 25 lb.