MSAT Scientist –Downstreams Process Development (Viral Vectors)

About the Role

CellVec Pte Ltd is seeking a highly motivated MSAT Scientist – Downstream Process Development to join our MSAT team. The successful candidate will develop and optimize downstream purification processes for viral vector manufacturing, support technology transfer into GMP manufacturing, and contribute to building robust and scalable manufacturing platforms for cell and gene therapy products.

Key Responsibilities

·       Develop, optimize, and scale downstream purification processes, including clarification, chromatography, and tangential flow filtration (TFF).

·       Design and execute process development and characterization studies using Design of Experiments (DoE) where appropriate.

·       Operate and troubleshoot pilot-scale chromatography and TFF systems.

·       Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for downstream process development and data interpretation.

·       Support technology transfer, process characterization, process validation (PPQ), and GMP manufacturing activities.

·       Identify and implement process improvements to enhance robustness, yield, and manufacturability.

·       Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Upstream PD, Analytical Development, Manufacturing, QA, QC, and Validation.

·       Perform analytical assays to support process development and characterization.

·       Prepare and review protocols, SOPs, technical reports, batch records, and technology transfer documentation.

·       Evaluate new technologies and purification platforms to improve downstream capabilities.

·       Mentor junior scientists and provide technical guidance.

·       Support customer audits and regulatory inspections as required.

Qualifications &Experience

·       PhD in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline with 3–5 years of relevant industry experience, or a Master's/Bachelor's degree with equivalent industry experience.

·       Experience in downstream process development for viral vectors (LVV,RVV, AAV) or biologics.

·       Hands-on experience with chromatography (affinity, IEX, SEC, HIC), ÄKTAsystems, Unicorn software, and tangential flow filtration (TFF).

·       Experience with analytical techniques such as ELISA, qPCR, dPCR, SDS-PAGE, Western blot

·       Experience supporting technology transfer, process characterization, process validation, or GMP manufacturing.

·       Familiarity with GMP, ICH Q8/Q9/Q10, Quality by Design (QbD), and statistical tools such as JMP or Minitab is preferred.

·       Strong scientific problem-solving, communication, and technical writing skills.

Personal Attributes

·       Self-motivated with strong scientific curiosity and attention to detail.

·       Collaborative team player with excellent communication skills.

·       Able to independently design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments.

·       Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

·       Passionate about mentoring others and driving continuous improvement.