Senior Scientist, Product Sciences

Senior Scientist, Product Sciences

Umoja Biopharma is a game-changing biotech start-up with locations in Seattle, WA and Louisville, CO, focused on transforming the treatment of cancer with a novel integrated immunotherapy platform. Our vision is to develop off-the-shelf therapies capable of treating any tumor, any time. We are a diverse and growing team working in brand-new facilities in downtown Seattle, Washington, and Louisville, Colorado, and we are looking for innovative thinkers who are excited by groundbreaking science and technology, and passionate about squaring up to the challenges inherent to cutting edge drug development. We are committed to the principles of Diversity Equity and Inclusion and strongly invite applications from enthusiastic individuals who share our commitment and help position Umoja as a leader in this front.

We at Umoja believe in the importance of stories; we are looking for great people to join our team to help us create more stories for ourselves, for you, and most importantly for patients and their families.

Umoja Biopharma – Your Body. Your Hope. Your Cure.

Position Summary

The Umoja Biopharma Product Sciences team is seeking a driven Senior Scientist to conduct studies to support characterization of Lentiviral Vector (LVV). The successful candidate will be developing a variety of molecular, cellular, biophysical, and biochemical protocols that deepen the product knowledge on the CAR-T cells. This position works closely with other functions to develop product sciences analytical methods, analyze multiple VivoVec products and train other analysts.

This position plays a critical role in advancing Umoja's pipeline and Analytical Development capabilities.

Core Responsibilities

• Develop biological hypothesis driven studies to characterize cellular and viral attributes, and correlation to clinical outcomes.
• Collaborate with AD and Research team members on various stages of analytical method lifecycle (development/qualification/transfer)
• Development of robust, sensitive, and fit-for-purpose bioanalytical assays to characterize cell and vector products, intermediates and starting material.
• Perform routine product sciences testing to support Process and Product understanding.
• Write Method Development Reports and qualification reports, as well as perform method qualifications
• Maintain clear records of experimental work using an electronic notebook system that adheres to company guidelines
• Prepare technical data reports and presentations
• Contribute to IND drafting for Module 3
• Communicate research and data in cross-functional meetings as designated SME
• Exemplify the company core values and adhere to company policies to ensure safety and quality of gene therapy products and facility

Qualifications

• A PhD/MS/BS in Biology, Biochemistry, or related discipline with 2/9/12 years of relevant experience, respectively. Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Hands-on experience with one or more of following techniques: primary cell-based assays, flow cytometry, ddPCR, or ELISA
• Experience with regulatory submissions for early and/or late-stage clinical trials

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent communication skills with the proven ability to build open and collaborative relationships and work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team
• Experience with viral vectors (e.g., AAV, LVV) is a plus
• Experience with experimental design, execution, and basic data analysis is a plus
• Self-motivation, organization, effective communication and presentation skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, meet deadlines, and prioritize work on multiple projects
• Strong communication skills in technical writing and oral presentation. Respectful of others and open to new ideas.

Physical Requirements

• 100% compliance with personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements in laboratory environments, including gloves, protective clothing, and eye safety glasses.
• Perform physical tasks required for the role, including standing, walking, bending, kneeling, sitting, working your hands in a biosafety cabinet, and occasionally moving materials up to 50 pounds.
• Project-oriented work in this role will require regular on-site presence (5 days/week) to complete essential job-related functions for assisting with analytical development and execution.

Salary Range

$136,765 - $185,035