Downstream Lead

About VitroLabs: VitroLabs is a venture-backed biotechnology startup working towards a world where science is used responsibly to provide positive impact for business, the planet, and all living things. By harnessing novel applications of science and technology, we've developed a process to grow real leather that is cruelty-free and better for the environment.

About the role:

You will report to the Associate Director of Bioprocessing Engineering and lay the foundation of mammalian cell culture downstream processing. You will oversee the development of methodologies for harvesting cells from bioreactors, concentrating cells, and cell cryopreservation. This is a unique chance to join a fast-growing startup in a new frontier, where you will help develop essential process steps.

About you:

You have experience in cellular downstream processing and cryopreservation. You can manage projects from start to finish and thoroughly understand mammalian cell biology. You know how to integrate downstream processing steps for consistent cell product yield. If you are excited about making an important impact at a growing startup, this might be the role for you.

Responsibilities:

• Guide a process development team on all downstream processing steps for mammalian cell culture.
• Collaborate and work with both the Upstream processing and the Tissue Engineering groups to guarantee a seamless process
• Research and suggest necessary equipment for this role; purchase and operate once approved
• Hire and manage an internal team and oversee supporting vendors
• Manage the transfer of technologies to both pilot and large-scale manufacturing.
• Design and execute experiments to scale up cell harvest and cryopreservation process
• Implement Process Analytical Techniques to manage downstream operations.
• Help develop and test cell-based assays for process validation.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience in cell cryopreservation in vials and bags
• Experience concentrating cells from large volumes (many liters) of cell culture media
• Experience with downstream processing steps and how they integrate with upstream processing
• Knowledge of cell thawing protocols
• Knowledge of Process Analytical techniques and cell-based assays
• Hands-on operational knowledge of large-scale downstream unit operations.

Competencies:

• Recognize what results are important – and what steps need to be taken to achieve them. Consistently achieve required results.
• Remain functional by adapting to changing circumstances (environment, procedures, people).
• Manage employees to enhance their performance; establish targets and provide appropriate means; control progress and correct employees.
• Ensure that all necessary information is passed on to teammates and project partners. Express oneself clearly in all interactions with others and approach concerns and feelings with empathy.
• Ensure that one's own work meets expectations. Proactively solicit and provide feedback to improve self and team performance.

We offer great benefits (health, vision, and dental insurance) and challenging, impactful work. Join our growing team, work with smart and dedicated people, and help develop cutting-edge technologies that will positively impact the world.

DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by incumbents assigned to this job. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the functions, responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position, and VitroLabs Inc retains the discretion to modify functions, responsibilities, duties and skills at any time, including modifying the time devoted to such activities, deleting activities and assigning other activities. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. VitroLabs Inc is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunities without regard to race, color, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, national origin, religion, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.