Associate Scientist I, Process Development Downstream

Job Description

Job Description

Forge Your Future with Us:

At Forge Biologics, we believe in turning bold ideas into life-changing realities. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to enable access to life-changing gene therapies and help bring them from ideas into reality. We partner with scientists, physicians, biotech and pharma innovators, and patient communities — all united by one goal: improving lives. If you're driven by purpose and excited to make a tangible impact, this is where your journey begins.

Our team works out of The Hearth, a state-of-the-art, 200,000-square-foot cGMP facility in Columbus, Ohio. Here, you won't just watch innovation happen — you'll be part of it. Whether you're scaling AAV manufacturing, collaborating on cutting-edge therapies, or supporting complex technical projects, you'll play a key role in bringing hope to patients with genetic diseases.

What sets Forge apart is our culture of  H.O.P.E. We are  hardworking , showing up each day with determination and grit. We are  open , creating a space where ideas flow freely, and every voice is valued. We are  purpose-driven , with every task directly tied to changing lives. And we are  engaged , energized by the challenges we face and the milestones we achieve together.

At Forge, your growth matters. We're committed to helping you expand your skills, take on new challenges, and develop your career through mentorship, hands-on learning, and opportunities for advancement. Our people are our greatest investment, and we're proud to see team members grow with us.

If you're ready to use your talent to help deliver hope to patients around the world, join us — and be part of something bigger than yourself.

About The Role:   

The Associate Scientist I engages in process development activities on a full-time basis and applies basic concepts of purification under close supervision. This person is expected to work closely with cross-functional teams to support in the  development and optimization of AAV purification processes, data analysis and summary reports on a timely basis while maintaining compliance and readiness.  

Responsibilities:  

• Learns and contributes to downstream process development activities with supervision  

• Builds foundational skills in purification techniques such as buffer preparation, filtration, column chromatography, buffer exchange, clarification techniques, lab cleaning and routine equipment sanitization and monitoring.  

• Expected to abide by all safety protocols and contribute to lab maintenance activities.  

• Collaborates with peers to support experiments and begins contributing to data discussions and problem-solving in team settings.  

• Learns to write simple study plans, PowerPoint presentations and internal reports with guidance. 

• Documents all work clearly and contemporaneously in lab notebooks and electronic systems, ensuring same-day data entry, accuracy and traceability.  

• Develops an understanding of downstream process development principles and begins learning how purification processes align and with cGMP requirements. 

Qualifications:  

• Associate's, Bachelor's or certification, in Chemical Engineering, Biology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry or related discipline or relevant coursework; 0–1 year of experience OR equivalent practical experience.  

• Prior experience through internships, job shadowing, or on-the-job learning. 

Preferred Skills:  

• Basic experience in laboratory skills such as buffer manufacturing, steam sterilization etc.  

• Basic data analysis and visualization using excel and PowerPoint skills 

• Basic experience with other aspects of downstream purification (e.g. – clarification/filtration, lab scale FPLC chromatography systems, TFF, etc.) 

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned.

Work Environment and Physical Demands 

This position works in both a laboratory environment and typical office environment where the physical work demands will vary depending on the specific tasks and duties required of the job. The employee will be stationary (standing/sitting) for extended periods of time. Employees regularly wear personal protective equipment based on the task being performed. Must be able to work in a confined space, such as a clean room or laboratory environment. Ability to identify small details within the field of vision, distinguish between different colors, and accurately identify objects within a specific area.  

Forge Biologics is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. Forge Biologics, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.  

At Forge Biologics, we believe our people deserve to be taken care of – in and out of the workplace. We've built a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to help you thrive, grow, and feel valued every step of the way:

Health from day one

• Health, dental and vision insurance start your first day – with 90% of premiums covered for you  and your family.

Time to recharge

• A competitive paid time off plan – because rest fuels innovation.
• 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave so you can focus on family when it matters most.

Rewarding your impact

• Annual bonus opportunities for all full-time team members.
• 401(k) with company match to help you plan for the future.
• Special employee discounts, including childcare and dependent care savings.

Your wellness, supported

• Onsite fitness facility at The Hearth.
• Mental health counseling and financial planning services through our Employee Assistance Program.
• Employer-paid short and long-term disability coverage to protect your peace of mind.

Fuel for your workday

• A fully stocked kitchen with free snacks and beverages – we keep you energized and ready for what's next.

Grow with us

• Ongoing professional development resources, training, and mentorship programs to help you build your care and grow within Forge.