Scientist II, Process Development

About Forge

Forge, a member of Ajinomoto Bio-Pharma Services, is a gene therapy development engine, focused on enabling access to life changing gene therapies and helping bring them from idea into reality. We partner with innovators in the gene therapy community: scientists, physicians, biotech/pharma companies, and patient groups. We bring expertise in gene therapy manufacturing and therapeutics development to the table, helping to champion teams that are navigating the long road from the lab bench to the bedside. Our goal is simple but vital to patients living with disease, and we take it seriously. With a patient-first approach, we are forging new models for working together to better accelerate these transformative medicines to reach those who need them the most. 

Forge is based in Columbus, Ohio, in a 200,000 square foot facility known affectionately by team members as, the Hearth. The Hearth, is a custom-designed cGMP facility dedicated to AAV manufacturing and hosts scalable, end-to-end manufacturing services.

About The Role

We are currently seeking a Scientist II, Process Development – Downstream to join the Forge Biologics team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the execution of laboratory experiments and protocols for downstream process development efforts. As a Scientist II, this individual will be responsible for contributing to the design and execution of process development protocols/studies to optimize procedures for unique viral vector platform processes and to assist in the technology transfer of client programs.

What You'll Do

• Assist in the design, execution, and analysis of experiments used for optimizing production and purification of AAV (Adeno Associated Virus).
• Execute downstream purification technologies related to rAAV purification using chromatography (affinity and ion-exchange) and filtration processes including microfiltration, depth filtration, tangential flow filtration, and sterile filtration.
• Conducts studies as an independent scientist or plays a leadership role in one or more projects
• Able to mentor and train Junior Scientists and provide directions regularly
• Develops laboratory protocols with minimal input from managers.
• Demonstrates experimental design and competency in multiple areas within the Scientist's department.
• Is a Subject Matter Expert and resource within department.
• Compile experimental data and prepare results and present to internal and external stakeholders.
• Support internal process transfer activities from Process Development to GMP.
• Package and ship finished product to clients in accordance with procedures and regulations.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related discipline.
• Practical experience with FPLC (Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography) systems.
• Very good understanding of downstream purification techniques.
• Must be self-motivating, organized and proactive.
• Strong technical aptitude including demonstrated experience in applying scientific reasoning to solve complex problems.
• Must be able to work independently but is also a team player with strong collaborative skills.
• Must be able to manage, mentor and guide direct reports
• Ability to work hours necessary to support development and/or product transfer activities.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced degree (Master's Degree or PhD) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related discipline.
• Doctoral-level degree with minimum of two years of relevant experience, or Master's degree with min. 8 years direct experience, or Bachelor's Degree with min. of 10 years experience
• Experience with GE AKTA systems (Pure, Avant, or Pilot) or Bio-Rad NGC FPLC systems
• Experience with Tangential Flow Filtration and other clarification techniques
• Experience with the purification of vaccines or viral vectors
• Experience with the production of biologics and performing bioassays.
• Experience in JMP Analytical Software.
• Experience in writing scientific reports

Work Environment and Physical Demands

This position works in both a laboratory environment and typical office environment where the physical work demands will vary depending on the specific tasks and duties required of the job. The employee will be stationary (standing/sitting) for extended periods of time. Employees regularly wear personal protective equipment based on the task being performed. Must be able to work in a confined space, such as a clean room or laboratory environment. Ability to identify small details within the field of vision, distinguish between different colors, and accurately identify objects within a specific area.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned.

Forge Biologics is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. Forge Biologics, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Life at Forge

We are a team of diverse, driven and passionate people working together to trailblaze a new model for how we make medicines to treat patients with genetic diseases. Our team members use their creativity and talent to invent new solutions, meet new demands, and offer the most effective services in the industry. Forge's core values lay the foundation for H.O.P.E. It provides us a common purpose that we all understand, work towards and live by. 

HARDWORKING - We work hard and smart, making a persistent and determined effort toward success. Working hard, with focus and desire is the key.

OPEN - We strive to be approachable, actively listen and encourage others to contribute and speak up. We positively offer and receive constructive feedback.

PURPOSE DRIVEN - We are passionate about working towards and delivering on our mission to manufacture gene therapies.

ENGAGED - We are fully absorbed by and enthusiastic about our work and take positive action to further Forge's vision, mission and goals.

We've Got You Covered

We take the health and happiness of our employees seriously and are consistently evaluating new ways to make our benefits truly UnFORGEttable.

• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance that starts on your first day at Forge, with 90% of premiums covered for team members as well as dependents
• Flexible PTO (plus 14 paid company holidays)
• Annual bonus for all full-time employees
• 401(K) company match
• Fully-stocked kitchen with free food/drinks
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave - additional discount programs include childcare support & dependent care
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness benefits (financial planning services, mental health counseling, employer paid disability)
• Professional & Personal development resources - LinkedIn Learning, a dedicate training staff in-house, mentoring opportunities & access to leadership development coaches