Sr. Scientist, Lentivirus Upstream Processing

The role

The Senior Scientist will design, execute, and optimize upstream production processes for lentiviral vectors. This role focuses on delivering high-quality vector products through mammalian cell culture, transient transfection, and bioreactor scale-up.

What you will do

• Design and execute experimental strategies for lentiviral vector upstream production.
• Perform development and optimization of upstream processes including seed train expansion, mammalian cell culture, and transient transfection.
• Support the establishment and validation of bioreactor scale-up and scale-down models.
• Support the translation of bench-scale processes to GMP manufacturing.
• Execute study protocols to define operating parameters and maintain documentation.
• Communicate technical findings and potential delays to project leads.
• Collaborate with cross-functional team members.
• Optimize vector titer, specific productivity, and quality.
• Provide technical guidance to junior staff.
• Author and review technical documents including development reports and SOPs.

Required qualifications

• Advanced degree (MS) in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in process development or manufacturing within a biotech or pharmaceutical setting if holding an MS.
• Hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture (HEK293, HEK293T), seed train expansion, feeding strategy, and transient transfection optimization for viral vectors.
• Proficiency in developing and implementing bioreactor scale-up and scale-down models.
• Solid understanding of GMP manufacturing requirements and CMC strategies for early-phase clinical trials.
• Direct experience with cell and lentiviral vector technologies.
• Working knowledge in engineering modeling, mass transfer, and bioprocess optimization.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Analytical and creative thinking.
• Effective troubleshooting skills.
• English proficiency.

Nice to have

• PhD
• Lentivirus experience
• Experience in handling large-scale (>50L, e.g., 200L/500L) upstream bioreactor processes
• Mandarin

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match that vests fully on day one
• Eight weeks of paid parental leave after three months of employment
• Paid time off including vacation, personal, sick, floating holidays, and eleven company holidays
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Life and AD&D insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Legal assistance
• Supplemental plans such as pet, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance
• Commuter benefits
• Family planning and care resources
• Well-being initiatives and peer-to-peer recognition programs

Before you apply

• Must be authorized to work in the United States
• Employment eligibility will be verified through E-Verify

About the company

Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to treating and curing life-threatening diseases. The company is advancing cell therapy through a portfolio of innovative technologies including CAR-T, TCR-T, and NK cell-based therapies.