Scientist I, Process Development - Upstream

About Forge

Our mission at Forge Biologics, is to enable access to life changing gene therapies and help 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 Team

The Upstream Process Development team is responsible for designing and optimizing the production processes of Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) vectors, which are essential components in gene therapy treatments. The team focuses on developing scalable and robust upstream processes that enable efficient and high-yield production of AAV vectors. They conduct research and apply advanced techniques to enhance vector yield, quality, and purity, while also ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines. 

About The Role

We are currently seeking a Scientist I, Process Development - Upstream to join the Forge Biologics team. This is an exciting opportunity to provide active leadership and execution of the laboratory experiments and protocols for upstream process development efforts. The candidate will be responsible for the execution of process development protocols/studies to optimize procedures for unique viral vector platform process and to assist in the transfer of client programs.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and oversee complex experiments for AAV upstream process development.
• Provide technical expertise in bioreactor operation, cell culture, and transfection.
• Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for single-use bioreactors and methods.
• Drive process optimization initiatives to enhance AAV yields, quality, and scalability.
• Conduct research as an independent scientist and assist in the leadership of projects .
• Compile experimental data with minimal oversight and contribute results for publications or reports.
• Independently present results and prepare publications or reports.
• Train and mentor junior team members; review data of self and team members.
• Develop and revise standard operating procedures (SOPs) and batch records.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of innovative process development strategies.
• Oversee day to day laboratory activities, including cleaning, replenishing supplies, and maintenance of equipment.
• Support internal process transfer activities from Process Development to GMP.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biology, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Working knowledge of cell culture techniques utilizing mammalian, insect, or microbial cells. 
• Proven ability to operate and troubleshoot bioreactors.
• Experience planning, conducting and reviewing experimental data with minimal oversight.
• Prior experience assisting in the training and development of other team members.
• Experience analyzing data sets and utilizing the corresponding data to influence decision making.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

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
• Unlimited PTO (plus 14 paid company holidays)
• Annual bonus for all full-time employees
• Equity-incentive plan
• 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