Associate Scientist Cell Line Development

The primary purpose of this position is to plan and execute experiments in support of the cell line generation group. The ideal candidate will do in vitro transcription, vector preparation in mammalian cells (HEK or CHO) and monitor the gene expression by different assays. He/She will also generate high productivity mammalian cell lines and execute the diverse cell culture experiments required to produce various vaccine candidates and antibodies.The position requires some knowledge in molecular biology, cell line development for recombinant protein expression. The scope of responsibility includes performing key activities associated with cell line development including molecular cloning, in vitro transcription, transfection, drug selection, single cell cloning, characterization and cell banking. An appreciation of GMP cell banking considerations is desirable and experience with bioreactor/WAVE systems is a plus. Experience in applied research is expected. The position also requires an appreciation of scale up and GMP manufacturing considerations. Careful documentation of work and presentation of data is required.All work is to be done in a compliant manner according to SOP guidelines and cGMP/GLP regulations, where applicable.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support in vitro expression of vaccine candidates using adherent or suspension mammalian cells by expression vector construction, in vitro transcription, transient transfection, cell culture maintenance.
• Optimize transient transfection for mRNA molecules in adherent or suspension mammalian cells using DOE principle.
• Monitor and quantify gene expression level and mRNA stability in cells by different assays such as ddRT-PCR, Octet, FACS, Fluorescence microscopy, ELISA, Western, etc. after transient transfection.
• Generate stable cell lines, primarily in CHO cells, by both targeted and random integration to produce vaccine candidates or antibodies.
• Perform and optimize electroporation/transfection and the selection/recovery of recombinant pools.
• Perform and optimize screening process to identify clonal isolates for expression of genes of interest from recombinant pools by both limiting dilution and FACS.
• Perform clone analysis and screening through use of high throughput assays such as Octet and/or ELISA.
• Characterize cell lines with different assays such as ddPCR, NOVA, FACS, MS, Western, ELISA etc. to measure genetic and epigenetic stability.
• Perform aseptic handling of mammalian cells and prepare cell banks.
• Collaborate with colleagues within Vaccine Research and Development organization including Bioprocess Purification, Analytical, and Formulation Development groups.
• Present problems and propose solutions in discussions with group members. Offer insights based on experience to group members to help solve existing problems.
• Analyze, interpret, and provide conclusions and present experimental data.
• Maintain detailed records and keep management informed as to the progress or issues.
• Keep abreast of scientific/ technological development by participating in scientific meetings/ seminars and through regular scientific review.
• Utilize new technologies and establish those technologies to improve cell culture capabilities of process development group.
• Where applicable, perform job responsibilities in compliance with GLP and all other regulatory agency requirements.
• Satisfactorily complete all GLP and safety training in compliance with departmental requirements and follow appropriate safety practices in the workplace.
• Perform timely notebook entries and review for completed experiments.

QUALIFICATIONS

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• BS degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Micobiology, Biochemistry or related discipline with some related experience.
• A strong background in genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and cell culture techniques is essential.
• Some hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, cell line development activities that involve introduction of recombinant genes into mammalian genomes is expected. Bioreactor/Wave system operation are a plus.
• Some experience in protein expression by transient transfection in mammalian cells.
• Proficiency with personal computers including word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint and relevant scientific software is desirable.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Some experience with mRNA preparation, in vitro transcription, ddRT-PCR, qPCR, multi-color FACS, Octet, vector construction preferred.
• Some experience with culturing and banking mammalian cell lines such as HEK and CHO expected.
• Some experience in protein production via transient transfection with DNA and RNA expected.
• Some experience in preparing stable cell lines by targeted or random integration preferred.
• Some experience in electroporation of cells, selection and purification of clonal isolates preferred.
• Some experience with protein purification with tagged and untagged protein is an advantage.
• Fast learner and problem solver.
• Knowledge and ability to design, plan, and execute cell culture activities.
• These should also include the ability to operate and maintain relevant instruments, resolve technical problems related to instruments, and execution of analytical / biophysical characterization methods.
• Analyze and provide conclusions regarding experimental data generated.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to make aseptic transfers.
• Mental requirements are a detailed understanding of the scientific subject matter.
• Ability to make scientific judgments and an ability to perform complex data analysis.

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

• The work requires a flexible work schedule to properly perform cell line development manipulations.
• This may involve the necessity of working outside of core hours and on weekends.

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

• The work requires a flexible work schedule to properly perform cell line development manipulations.
• This may involve the necessity of working outside of core hours and on weekends.

Other Job Details:

• Last Date to Apply for Job: September 10th 2021
• Eligible for Employee Referral Bonus: YES

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EEO & Employment Eligibility

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