Senior Research Associate, Process Science & Technology

Do you want to be part of an inclusive team that works to develop innovative therapies for patients? Every day, we are driven to develop and deliver innovative and effective new medicines to patients and physicians. If you want to be part of this exciting work, you belong at Astellas!

Astellas Pharma Inc. is a pharmaceutical company conducting business in more than 70 countries around the world. We are committed to turning innovative science into medical solutions that bring value and hope to patients and their families. Keeping our focus on addressing unmet medical needs and conducting our business with ethics and integrity enables us to improve the health of people throughout the world. For more information on Astellas, please visit our website at www.astellas.com .

Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine (AIRM) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Astellas Pharma Inc and focused on the development and commercialization of stem cell and regenerative medicine therapies. Astellas is an R&D-driven global pharmaceutical company whose philosophy is to contribute to the improvement of people's heath around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products.

AIRM has a world-class R&D team, and is pursuing a diverse range of disease indications, ranging from macular degeneration (currently in clinical trials) and other ocular indications to vascular and autoimmune disease. AIRM's intellectual property portfolio includes pluripotent stem cell platforms -- both embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells as well as other cell-based therapy research programs. AIRM is headquartered in Massachusetts.

Astellas is announcing a Senior Research Associate, Process Science & Technology opportunity at their Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine (AIRM) site in Westborough, MA.

Purpose:

We are seeking a highly motivated and energetic Senior RA to join the Process Science & Technology team. This person will assist with process development projects in collaboration with other members of our group, maintain accurate records and perform routine laboratory duties. On-the-job training for specific operations will be provided, but a strong background in mammalian cell culture as well as a high level of scientific curiosity are a must.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

  • Differentiate human pluripotent stem cells into various cell types

  • Cultures and maintains various cell lines including pluripotent cells and other cell types using specified protocols

  • Develops new processes or assays using cell culture and analytical methods

  • Maintains records in notebook and electronic format according to company policies

  • Design and independently conduct experiments

  • Interprets data, draws appropriate conclusions from experimental work, and presents findings in team meetings

  • Contributes to preparation of technical reports and result summaries

  • Understands the proper use and maintenance of laboratory equipment and record keeping

  • Contributes to general laboratory and equipment maintenance

Quantitative Dimensions:

This position will have a positive impact on PST’s ability to develop new processes upcoming products being transferred this fiscal year from R&D (EV program, secondary indications for ASP1009). In FY23, tech transfer of the EV program from R&D is scheduled. Selecting and optimizing a bioreactor for this program, as well as scaling up the isolation and purification of the EVs will require the focused effort of this position. Additionally, the recall of an FTE back to R&D after assisting with HMC process development, will slow the selection and optimization of a replacement bioreactor for the ASP1009 program.

Organizational Context:

This position reports to the Principal Scientist, Process Science and Technology. This individual will also work closely with other functions such as process and science technology, quality control, and translational development.

Qualifications:

Required:

  • BS degree with 4+ years of relevant experience or MS degree with 2+ years of relevant experience.

  • Solid working knowledge of cell culture with adherent mammalian cell lines

  • Working knowledge of microscopy, and cell- and molecular-based assays

  • Proven ability to efficiently learn new skills and attention to detail

  • Ability to maintain accurate records and effectively manage multiple projects

  • Strong organizational, time management, and problem solving skills

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to work flexible schedule including weekends

Preferred:

  • Experience in cell-based therapies

  • Experience with medium and large scale bioreactors for adherent cells

  • Experience with extracellular vesicle (EV) production, isolation, and purification (e.g. TFF, HPLC operation)

  • Experience with process or assay development

  • Experience with GMP/GLP, SOPs, Batch Records

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

  • Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation, Sick time, plus national holidays including Heritage Days, and Summer and Winter Breaks

  • 401(k) match and annual company contribution

  • Company paid life insurance

  • Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions

  • Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions

  • Referral bonus program

#LI-LK

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.

Category CMC Technical Operations

Astellas is committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment.

EOE including Disability/Protected Veterans

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