Research Associate II | Cell Therapy

Manager: Senior Scientist, Cell Therapy Analytical Development
Department: Cell Therapy Technical Development
Location: Brisbane, CA

Sangamo Therapeutics is a genomic medicine company building value with cutting-edge work across four distinct but complementary technology platforms – gene therapy, cell therapy, in vivo genome editing, and in vivo genome regulation. Using its deep scientific expertise and proprietary zinc finger genome engineering technology, Sangamo is working to create genomic cures for patients suffering from severe genetic diseases for which today’s medicines can only treat symptoms. At Sangamo, we are passionate about transforming lives by building a robust, sustainable, differentiated, innovative, and high value genomic medicine pipeline that addresses patients with life-limiting conditions. Sangamo takes pride in being the first to edit endogenous human genes, first to treat patients with gene edited T cells, and first to treat patients with in vivo genome editing. Our top priority is to meet the needs of patients with commitment and compassion. Along with our commitment to science and to our patients, we also endeavor to create an inclusive environment that promotes and values diversity. Sangamo is a company where individuals can flourish, grow and develop their expertise.

We are seeking top talent to join our mission. Let’s build a better future together.

JOB SUMMARY:   
Sangamo Therapeutics is seeking a talented Research Associate II to join our Cell Therapy Process Development group to aid in development of manufacturing processes for our cellular based therapeutics. The individual will help in the design and execution of experiments to characterize and optimize process unit operations. This role will involve working with laboratory scale process systems to evaluate critical process parameters influencing cell isolation, expansion, purification, transduction/transfection and cryopreservation unit operations related to yield and quality.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

• Execute experiments for process characterization and optimization
• Setup and maintain lab based process equipment and inventory for pilot scale operations
• Perform development, qualification and validation testing of new and existing processes and assays for programs developing gene-modified cell-based products. Such processes may include:
  • Primary cell separation procedures
  • Ex vivo gene modification of primary cells
  • Primary cell culture and cryopreservation set points and limits
  • In vitro characterization of cell biology, function and differentiation
  • FACS-based characterization of cell phenotype, function and differentiation
• Work with research teams to adapt and scale emerging processes to clinical manufacturing standards
• Assist with preparing SOPs, batch records, process and assay development summaries, process/assay/equipment qualification and validation protocols, reports and other documentation
• Participate in the transfer of processes and assays to GMP Operations and/or collaborators for use in clinical trial production

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

The ideal candidate for this position will have experience with clinical scale production of human cell therapy products, including cell isolation, gene modification, culture, harvest processing, and cryopreservation.

Candidate must possess:

• Degree in cell biology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering or a related discipline. Advanced degree is desirable.
• >2 years of hands-on experience with cell and/or tissue-based products, cell and/or tissue processing, antibody-based cell separation technology, mammalian cell culture, aseptic technique, closed system technology, automated cell processing platforms, and operation and maintenance of general cell processing equipment
• Experience with:
  • Gene modification of primary cells
  • Cell cryopreservation
  • Cell based assays, immunoassays, FACS analysis, primary cell characterization
  • Technology transfer
• Strong written and oral communications skills

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with immune cells (T Cells, B Cells, Macrophages), CD34⁺ cells, & IPSCs

Sangamo is an equal opportunity employer
The above reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this position but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The above duties are representative only; management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.

Note to External Recruiters: Please understand that we do not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than from the candidates themselves. Any agency or independent recruiter must have a signed copy of our agency agreement before presenting candidates. Submission of unsolicited resumes without our signed agreement will not create any implied obligation on our part.

If you wish to be considered for the presentation of candidates, please contact us through Recruiting@sangamo.com. Attach your contact information, your area of specialty, and any marketing information you wish to provide. Someone from the Talent Acquisition Department will contact you directly if there is a business need for your services.

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