Research Associate , Upstream Process Development

research associate 2, upstream process development

important note: due to the large volume of spam applications on linkedin, in order for your application to be considered, you must upload a cover letter along with your cv that describes why you believe you are an excellent fit for this role

who we are:

novel biotechnology usa, inc, located in scenic vancouver, wa, is a life science technology company on a mission to make cutting‑edge genetic medicines more accessible. We are developing plasmid dna biomanufacturing platforms that are safe, scalable, adaptable to complex dna payloads, have improved product quality, and are many times more productive than existing systems. We deploy our proprietary technologies in manufacturing services that we offer to a growing base of clients.

position summary:

we are seeking a motivated and adaptable research associate 2 to join our growing upstream process team as an early team member. This is an opportunity to make a direct impact on process development from the ground up, working with multiple microbial host systems in a dynamic, fast‑paced startup environment. You'll gain broad hands‑on experience across upstream and downstream bioprocessing while helping shape our technical operations and culture.

key responsibilities:

• execute dasgip bioreactor runs with various microbial hosts (e. Coli and proprietary production systems) according to experimental plans
• perform bioreactor setup including media preparation, equipment configuration, and system calibration
• adapt quickly to changing protocols and experimental designs as processes are developed and optimized
• conduct bioreactor takedown, cleaning, and sanitization following sops
• perform aseptic sampling during bioreactor runs at specified time points
• process samples for various analytical assays including optical density and plasmid volumetric yield
• maintain accurate and detailed documentation in electronic lab notebooks and batch records
• troubleshoot equipment issues and perform maintenance as needed
• collaborate with cross‑functional teams including operations, downstream, and molecular biology groups
• participate in strain evaluation, process optimization studies, and scale‑down model development
• maintain laboratory equipment, inventory, and supplies
• cross‑train on downstream processing activities to gain broad bioprocessing knowledge and to support end‑to‑end workflows

required qualifications:

• bachelor's degree in biotechnology, microbiology, chemical engineering, bioengineering, biochemistry, or related field
• 1-4 years of experience in a biopharmaceutical or biotechnology laboratory environment
• proficiency with bioreactor operations (bench‑scale or pilot‑scale)
• knowledge of aseptic technique and microbial fermentation principles
• strong adaptability and comfort working in a dynamic startup environment where protocols change frequently
• entrepreneurial mindset with ability to wear multiple hats
• excellent attention to detail and commitment to data integrity
• ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively as part of a small team
• strong organizational and time management skills
• proficiency in microsoft office suite and electronic data systems

preferred qualifications:

• experience specifically with dasgip bioreactor systems
• familiarity with multiple microbial production systems (e. Coli, yeast, bacillus, etc.)
• understanding of microbial process parameters (do, ph, temperature control, feeding strategies)
• experience with plasmid manufacturing processes
• proficiency with molecular biology techniques, particularly minipreps
• experience with analytical methods for bioprocess monitoring
• interest in or exposure to cgmp environments (training opportunities available)

physical requirements:

• ability to stand for extended periods
• capability to lift up to 30 pounds
• manual dexterity for laboratory equipment operation
• willingness to work flexible hours to support bioreactor runs, including occasional evenings and weekends

why join our team:

• early‑stage impact: be a founding member of our upstream team with direct influence on process development
• rapid learning: exposure to diverse microbial systems, evolving protocols, and both upstream/downstream operations
• autonomy & ownership: take initiative and see your ideas implemented quickly
• growth trajectory: as we scale, early team members advance into leadership roles
• location advantage: vancouver, wa - proximity to beautiful outdoors and no state income tax
• mission‑driven work: help develop processes that enable quicker and cheaper plasmid dna production

seniority level: entry level

employment type: full‑time

job function: engineering and information technology

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