Process Engineer, Process Development

Kyverna Therapeutics is a patient-centered, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing cell therapies for patients suffering from autoimmune diseases. Guided by our core values, Stay True to Why, Collaborate to Accelerate, Lead with Clarity, Boldly Innovative, and Own the Outcome, we are committed to transforming the future of treatment for autoimmune disease. Join us at the forefront of cell therapy innovation and help redefine what’s possible.

Position Overview

Kyverna is seeking a hands-on Process Engineer to support process development for autologous CAR T cell products. The role will focus on developing, optimizing, and transferring upstream and downstream processes to GMP.  Process development will focus on closing and automating product formulation and fill/finish steps, and integration with robotics systems. This individual designs experiments supporting these ends and creates objectives to support the company’s goals. The role requires strong partnership with functions within technical operations including Analytical Development, Quality, and Manufacturing, and with other internal and external stakeholders. The ideal candidate will leverage their experience in cell therapy process development and partner cross-functionally with MSAT, manufacturing, analytical development, and quality to enable robust, GMP-ready processes.

Department: Technical Development
Location: Emeryville, CA (On-site) 
Reports To: Sr. Director, Process Development

Responsibilities

• Lead design, optimization and technical execution of process development activities for autologous CAR T cell workflows (cell isolation, activation, transduction/transfection, expansion, harvest, formulation, cryopreservation).
• Develop and implement automated formulation and fill/finish processes for cell therapy drug product, including closed-system and aseptic considerations.
• Support the integration and validation of robotics platforms with cell processing steps as process subject matter expert.
• Design experiments, run bench- and pilot-scale studies, maintain accurate lab notebook entries, analyze data, and generate technical reports.
• Draft and maintain process documentation including process descriptions, process control strategies, bill of materials, and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain accurate documentation (protocols, batch records, risk assessments, CAPAs) consistent with regulatory and GMP standards.
• Support technology transfer to MSAT and manufacturing, including development of manufacturing instructions, equipment requirements, training materials, and execution support.
• Work with analytical development and quality control to define in-process controls, release testing, and associated acceptance criteria.
• Support equipment qualification, process validation, and troubleshooting in GMP environments.
• Participate in cross-functional project teams and present technical updates to stakeholders.

Qualifications

• BS in Chemical, Biomedical, Biological Engineering, or related field  and 8 years experience in process development for cell therapy products; direct experience with autologous CAR T highly preferred.
• MS in Chemical, Biomedical, Biological Engineering, or related field (MS preferred) and 6 years experience in process development for cell therapy products; direct experience with autologous CAR T highly preferred..
• Practical experience designing and executing cell culture/expansion and formulation processes for cell therapy drug products.
• Hands-on experience with automation of formulation and fill/finish steps; familiarity with closed-system processing and aseptic fill technologies.
• Knowledge of GMP requirements, technology transfer practices, and manufacturing support (MSAT).
• Strong data analysis skills and proficiency with experimental design, statistical analysis, and process characterization.
• Excellent technical writing skills for protocols, reports, and process transfer packages.
• Experience with specific automated platforms (e.g., CliniMACS Prodigy, CTS Rotea, CTS Compleo, GatheRex, GE WAVE, Dynaselect) or robotic solutions.
• Experience integrating robotics and automation systems (e.g., liquid handlers, robotic arms, automated incubators/bioreactors) into bioprocess workflows.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting capability in laboratory and pilot-scale environments.
• Collaborative team player with demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with MSAT, manufacturing, analytical, QA, and RegCMC.
• Effective communicator—able to present complex technical concepts clearly to scientific and non-scientific stakeholders.
• Organized, detail-oriented, able to manage multiple priorities and project timelines.
• Comfortable working in dynamic, fast-paced biotech environments.

The salary range for this position is from $135,000. To $150,000. USD annually. This salary range is an estimate of what we reasonably expect to pay for this posted position, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including without limitation individual education, experience, tenure, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.  This position is also eligible for bonus, benefits, and participation in Company’s stock plan.