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R&D Associate I- Upstream Process Development
Job Number: 2020-35574
Category: Biotechnology
Location: Mattapan, MA
Shift: Day
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non Exempt
Business Unit: MassBiologics
Department: MassBiological Labs - MassBiologics of UMMS - W416800
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary Grade: 05
Union Code: Non Union Position-W25-Non Unit Classified
Num. Openings: 1
Post Date: Aug. 21, 2020

GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION: 

 

The Research Associate I is responsible for carrying out upstream cell culture process development activities supporting development of media and feed supplements, optimization and scale-up of cell culture processes for the production of monoclonal antibodies and technical transfer to manufacturing.  The Associate I will prepare, formulate, and filter cell culture basal media and reagents. Additionally, the Associate I will provide lab coverage during evenings, weekends, and holidays on a rotating basis, as required to support upstream development activities.  The incumbent will perform established assays and contribute to the development of new assays. 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Maintains cell cultures in monolayer, shake flask, spinner flask and small-scale bench top bioreactor systems for the production of monoclonal antibodies.
  • Prepare experiments and maintain cell culture logs as required.
  • Performs analytical biochemistry and molecular biology assays as well as microscopy and other laboratory testing as required.
  • Keeps timely and accurate documentation records in notebooks, organize and report results.
  • Operates and maintains standard laboratory equipment and departmental specific laboratory equipment.
  • Analyzes data in Excel and DOE software, and provides accurate, concise data summaries
  • Ensures timely and accurate documentation in accordance with cGMP and MassBiologics' SOPs.  Contributes to the development of improved documentation processes.
  • Provides support for protocol writing, project summaries and technical reports.
  • Prepares written and oral reports for presentation to the supervisor(s) and development group.
  • Maintains reagent and equipment inventories, orders supplies and cleans laboratory areas, hoods and common equipment.
  • Exercises technical discretion in the design, execution and interpretation of experiments that contribute to project strategies within defined parameters. 
  • Perform additional job related duties as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Requires a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with a minimum 0-2 years of relevant experience.
  • Hands on experience with antibody production in mammalian.
  • Ability to follow instructions precisely, recognize deviations, and recommend corrective action within scope of training.
  • Possesses strong attention to detail, ability to maintain accurate records and excellent proofreading skills.
  • Ability to troubleshoot within scope of training.
  • Strong critical thinking, time management and organizational skills. Demonstrated ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects and consistently meet deadlines.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively with others.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team.
  • Computer literate and proficient in MS Word, Excel and other relevant electronic systems.
  • Occasionally projects require flexibility in work schedule to meet business needs.

ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Job may require working with hazardous and infectious materials.   Employees will receive appropriate training and be required to adhere to UMBL policies and procedures.

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