Senior Scientist I - Cell Culture Process Development

We are seeking an enthusiastic and creative hands-on senior scientist to join the Cell Culture Process Development group within PDS&T Biologics at AbbVie Bioresearch Center in Worcester, MA. As part of the Cell Culture Development organization, you will support process development and technology transfer activities for cell culture processes, contributing to the clinical manufacturing and commercialization of therapeutic proteins in the AbbVie pipeline. Additionally, you will be a part of a team that provides subject matter expertise and experimental support for the production of commercial biologics. The ideal candidate will work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a dynamic team environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and characterize highly-productive CHO cell culture processes suitable for cGMP biotherapeutic manufacturing within project timelines, performing technical transfer, and manufacturing support activities.
Lead and execute scientific research and development initiatives to reduce cost of goods (COGs) by significantly improving platform processes and workflows, deepening scientific understanding, and applying new methods and technologies. These include cell metabolic modeling, perfusion technology, and a suite of Process Analytical Technology (PAT) tools.
Design, execute, and analyze cell culture experiments using Design of Experiments (DOE) principles and report data summary packages for multi-variate analysis.
Work collaboratively and cross-functionally with colleagues in other functional areas (Analytical Development, Cell Line Development, Discovery, Manufacturing, and Quality). Effectively communicate scientific data and concepts to internal and external audiences through reports, presentations and manuscripts. Author and review technical reports, protocols, and other key documents.
Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, safety, documentation and GMP compliance.
Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent education with minimum 10 years of experience, or Master’s Degree or equivalent education with minimum 8 years of experience. Or PhD with no minimum years of experience, in chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, or a related discipline.
Proven ability to independently design experiments, troubleshoot technical issues, and deliver high-quality scientific output.
Strong understanding of cell biology with extensive hands-on experience with mammalian suspension cell culture
Theoretical and practical knowledge to carry out the job functions.
Preferred Qualifications:
Understanding of cell culture processes (e.g., cell culture process development, process scale up and scale down, recombinant protein production, protein characterization).
Demonstrated experience in cell metabolic modeling and process modeling using mechanistic model and/or machine learning algorithms.
Familiarity with bioreactor perfusion processes.
Demonstrated experience in applying Process Analytical Technology (PAT) to improve cell culture processes.
Hands-on experience with upstream mammalian suspension cell culture using bench scale bioreactors, AMBR, and shake flasks.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Strong scientific curiosity with a passion for problem-solving and optimization. Self-motivated with excellent attention to detail and ability to multi-task. Strong organizational, planning and trouble-shooting skills.

Employment type
Full-time

Work arrangement
No