Research Associate II, Process Development

BlueRock is seeking a talented and highly motivated full-time Research Associate to join the Cell Banking Process Development function. As a member of the team, the candidate will contribute towards the generation of high-quality tested cell lines and banks of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) that form the foundation of cell-based therapies.

The primary responsibilities will be supporting evaluation of improvements to the cell banking process including new cell culture methods, raw materials, analytics and automation, towards the goal of ultimately tech-transferring learnings to Analytical Development, Quality Control and GMP manufacturing. There will also be the opportunity to collaborate with other groups within the Process Development team as well as internal and external development partners. In a broader sense, the successful candidate will be part of developing novel cell-based therapies and bringing regenerative medicines to those who are suffering with intractable diseases. Our dynamic workplace is attractive to those who are self-motivated and resourceful.

Responsibilities:

• Support project planning, experimental design, and hands-on laboratory execution of process development work for cell banking and upstream manufacturing.
• Support evaluation of new cell culture methods, raw materials, analytics and automation for cell banking and upstream manufacturing.
• Support tech transfer of evaluated process improvements and analytical methods to GMP Manufacturing, Analytical Development and Quality Control functions.
• Perform cell culture procedures including thawing, passaging, expanding and cryopreserving hPSC lines.
• Perform laboratory molecular techniques (e.g. DNA/RNA extraction, qRT-PCR, flow cytometry) and various cell characterization assays and determine experimental outcomes.
• Collect and analyze data in electronic laboratory notebooks from cell processes, various assays, then track and trend data, and establish specifications for process characterization and control.
• Present scientific data to colleagues in small and large group meetings and forums, prepare and present internal and external presentations (presentations, posters, publications).
• Author, review and approve SOPs, study protocols, technical reports, slide decks, and other scientific and quality documents.
• Perform additional duties to support the safe and efficient operation of the laboratory, and other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• An MSc in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences or related field with 0-3 years of industry or relevant academic experience, or a BSc in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences or related field with 2-5 years of industry or relevant academic experience.
• A minimum requirement of 3 years of experience in aseptic culture technique, maintaining hPSCs or other mammalian cell types and related laboratory experience.
• Experience with cell characterization assays (primarily molecular biology-based) is required.
• Experience in culturing and characterizing hPSCs is highly advantageous.
• A proven ability to be highly productive and successful in a high pace work environment with excellent attention to details and meticulous bench work
• Cooperating with a larger team, must be able to solve a wide range of complex problems in creative and practical ways
• Self-motivated and willing to accept temporary responsibilities outside of initial job description
• Competency in computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Comfortable in a fast-paced small company environment with minimal direction and able to adjust workload based upon changing priorities
• Shares relevant information openly and seeks appropriate input from others outside of the direct team; develops and maintains effective cross-functional working relationships and partnerships; responds positively and constructively to requests for support from across the organization.

Work Environment:

• In this position you will work in controlled laboratory environments which requires the use of personal protective equipment. There is a risk of potential exposure to chemicals and biohazards in the context of cell therapy.

Equal Opportunity Workplace:

• At BlueRock, we welcome and support differences and diversity and we are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. Please let us know if you require disability-related accommodation or other grounds protected by human rights legislation during the recruitment process so that we can work with you to meet your needs.

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