Development Associate I

About the Role

The Development Associate I - Downstream Process Development works with a team of scientists and engineers developing production processes for therapeutic biologic candidates in preclinical, clinical, and late-stage development. The primary responsibility will be to purify proteins to support the development of downstream processes. This individual plays a collaborative role within the downstream team and with members of upstream, bioanalytical, analytical, and formulation development groups.

Essential Functions

• Performs small-scale downstream process development experiments supporting monoclonal antibody purification, including liquid chromatography and tangential flow filtration.
• Prepares process intermediates and experimental samples for analytical testing.
• Prepares purified protein materials to support process development studies and cross-functional activities.
• Performs analytical methods, such as UV-visible spectrophotometry, turbidimetry, density, pH, and conductivity measurements.
• Collaborates closely with scientists, engineers, and other Process Development team members.
• Manages multiple laboratory activities and priorities while maintaining strong attention to detail and follow-through.
• Proactively communicates experimental progress, unexpected observations, scheduling needs, and potential challenges to teammates.
• Prepares clear, concise summaries, presentations, and reports to communicate experimental results.
• Helps maintain an organized, efficient, and safe laboratory environment.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Accredited bachelor’s degree in a scientific or engineering discipline such as Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field.
• Foundational knowledge of one or more of the following areas: liquid chromatography, membrane filtration, protein chemistry, biochemical engineering, or related scientific principles.
• Familiarity with common laboratory equipment such as pH, conductivity, and temperature meters; pumps; pressure gauges; balances; pipettes; and benchtop centrifuges.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Comfortable asking questions, sharing observations, and keeping teammates informed.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to plan and manage multiple priorities.
• A proactive approach to work and a willingness to take ownership of assigned responsibilities.
• Curiosity, enthusiasm for learning, and openness to feedback and coaching.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and established laboratory and industry safety practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.

Preferred Education, Experience and Skills

• Academic, internship, research, or industry experience with protein purification or downstream processing.
• Experience with ÄKTA chromatography systems and UNICORN software.
• Exposure to pilot-scale or manufacturing-scale biotechnology operations.
• Experience presenting scientific results through laboratory meetings, research projects, internships, poster presentations, or similar settings.

Travel

• Some domestic travel may be required.