Senior Scientist

Senior Scientist / Principal Scientist, Bioprocess Science

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced scientific expert to join our team as a Senior Scientist or Principal Scientist of Bioprocess Sciences. This role will provide technical expertise for bacterial protein production programs supporting research and development. The successful candidate will be part of a dynamic team of scientists responsible for process development, scale-up strategy, and external manufacturing oversight.

Pay Range
Base pay: $/yr – $/yr

• Provide technical expertise for bacterial strain engineering, fermentation, protein expression, purification, and protein characterization activities.
• Develop, optimize, and scale bacterial culture and purification processes for internal and external manufacturing.
• Manage and oversee activities at contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs), including tech transfer, process troubleshooting, timelines, and deliverables.
• Partner cross‑functionally with research, analytical, quality, and leadership teams to achieve project milestones.
• Establish and maintain robust documentation, protocols, and data packages to support internal decision‑making and external partners.
• Prepare and present technical reports, development strategies, and risk assessments to internal stakeholders.
• Stay current with advancements in bioprocessing technologies, manufacturing trends, and regulatory expectations.

• Doctoral degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 6+ years of progressive experience in bacterial protein expression, purification, and bioprocess development.
• Demonstrated experience leading projects and mentoring or managing scientists.
• Hands‑on expertise with affinity‑based protein purification (e.g., FPLC), bacterial expression systems, and routine molecular biology assays.
• Strong working knowledge of SDS‑PAGE, Western blotting, ELISA, and other biochemical and biophysical assays.
• Experience interpreting QC assays (fluorometric, chromogenic, etc.) and assessing data quality and process performance.
• Routine use of electronic laboratory notebooks (e.g., Benchling) with a strong commitment to data integrity.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects.
• Ability to work independently in a fast‑paced, evolving environment.

• Direct experience managing or collaborating with CDMOs for process development or manufacturing.
• Experience with bioreactor operations, scale‑up, and tech transfer.
• Protein characterization experience using HPLC/UPLC and/or LC‑MS.
• Familiarity with regulatory expectations related to bioprocessing and manufacturing.
• Background in protein engineering or recombinant protein production.
• Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Fast‑paced, collaborative, and innovative work environment.

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter detailing relevant experience. To be considered for the role, applicants must:

• Be eligible to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship.
• Be able to work onsite in the lab located in San Diego.
• Be a direct candidate and not from a third‑party staffing agency.

Please apply directly through Pivotal Life Sciences:
Senior Scientist / Principal Scientist Application

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Science and Research