Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Developmen

Job Description

Job Description

Are you ready to play a vital role in transforming the future of neurological disease treatment? An innovative, clinical-stage biopharma company is seeking a talented Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development, to join their fast-growing team in Houston on a contract basis. This is a unique opportunity to advance your career in gene therapy, supporting a rapidly expanding pipeline and world-class manufacturing environment.

Position Title: Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development
Location: Houston, TX 
Rate : $35-40/hr.
Duration : 6 months + potential extension 

About the Opportunity
This hands-on technical role supports the design, execution, and optimization of breakthrough gene therapy products. Reporting to the Associate Director, Downstream Process Development, you will contribute across a spectrum of viral vector purification activities—empowering the company’s pipeline from research through clinical and commercial production.
Be part of a collaborative and mission-driven culture that is unwavering in its commitment to patients, innovation, and scientific excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute routine and complex viral vector purification, from buffer preparation and sampling to small-scale purification runs and GMP batch execution.
• Support process development operations including development and toxicology production runs, reagent prep, inventory control, and lab upkeep.
• Draft and review critical documentation, including SOPs, batch production records, process forms, and laboratory records, adhering to best practices in biotechnology and compliance.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with analytical and upstream teams to define and deliver critical quality attributes and process performance for AAV purification.
• Maintain accurate laboratory protocols and data capture, participating in inventory and equipment management, waste disposal, and lab safety procedures.
• Stay engaged with the latest advances in viral vector process development and proactively contribute to the success of the process development team.

What We’re Looking For

• BSc in Biological Science or related discipline
• 2+ years’ experience in a biotechnology or biopharma environment preferred
• Practical experience in basic laboratory operations related to virus/protein purification, buffer preparation, and aseptic technique
• Familiarity with chromatography and filtration purification methods; AKTA chromatography experience preferred
• Hands-on experience with viral vector bioprocessing, especially AAV, is an advantage
• Comfortable working in regulated environments (GLP/GMP); GMP experience is a plus
• Understanding of bioprocess documentation (SOPs, batch records) and regulatory expectations (FDA/EMA/cGMP a plus)
• Proven team player with strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Tech-savvy with proficiency in MS Office, accurate documentation practices, and attention to detail
• Ability to work flexibly, lift up to 25 lbs frequently (50 lbs occasionally), and thrive in a laboratory setting

Why Join Us?

• Grow with a forward-thinking company at the cutting edge of gene therapy for neurological diseases
• Collaborate with industry experts and contribute to life-changing therapies
• Advance your skills in a highly supportive, innovation-focused culture
• Be part of a Houston-based organization with an end-to-end manufacturing footprint, setting the stage for personal and professional growth

Take your next step in the gene therapy revolution. Apply your expertise in downstream process development to truly make a difference for patients and families facing rare diseases.

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Please note: The following benefits reflect Kelly's general offerings. Eligibility may vary by assignment, location, and job type. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

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