Associate Director, Cell Line Development

About this job

We are seeking an innovative, productive, and experienced Associate Director to lead the effort in generating commercial cell lines to support large-scale manufacturing of cell-cultured meat products. This individual will oversee cell line procurement, characterization, and engineering, including utilization of genetic editing tools to derive desirable lines. An ideal candidate would have experience across multiple cell types (including stem cells) and species, and be able to drive and coordinate research initiatives as we aim for continuous improvement and thorough understanding of our cells and media. The role will work closely with our Cell Line Screening and Discovery teams to perfect methods and strategies to develop cells for scalable meat production, as well as Data and Automation teams to enable high-throughput derivation and data capture.

This is a cross-functional position with opportunities for collaboration across various R&D groups. Due to the dynamic and collaborative environment of our organization, this role will require someone who can succeed individually, but also as part of a team. Lastly, and most importantly, our ideal teammate will bring a sense of creativity, enthusiasm, and integrity to both this position and our organization.

Duties include

• Leading teams accountable for cell line procurement, genetic engineering, cell characterization, and the utilization of stem cells for cell-based meat.
• Managing technical transfer of characterized cell lines to dependent teams.
• Implementing innovative approaches to an emerging field to improve cellular performance, throughput, and efficiency of the Cell Line Development pipeline.
• Collaborating with supporting teams to implement high-throughput technology to support objectives.
• Interfacing with LIMS data platform to ensure component traceability and proper characterization of processes.
• Working with the Discovery and Media Development team to better understand how cells, genetic amendments, media, and processes affect meat quality.
• Cooperating with Quality and Regulatory teams to ensure best practices for the commercial sale of our products.
• Aiding teams in experimental design, procedure, data collection, and interpretation of results
• Frequent and clear communication of technical data and research directions
• Managing a team of Sr. Sci/Sci-level individuals and supporting their career development.

About you

• BS/MS or Ph.D. in cell biology, stem cell biology, biochemistry, bioengineering or closely-related science with 5+ years of R&D experience in the biopharmaceutical or similar industry.
• Industrial cell line development experience and strong academic background in a relevant field.
• Experience leading a team in cell line development, screening, or related activity.
• Familiarity across multiple genetic editing tools and cell types (including stem cells)
• Experience in high-throughput platforms for cell line derivation and characterization is preferred.
• Comfortable developing scientific knowledge base by learning new methods from peers, seminars, and scientific literature.
• Capable of fostering a team environment, collaborating with direct team members as well as scientists in other departments. Open to new ideas and often seeks critical feedback from colleagues and demonstrates effective cooperation.
• Ability to develop and nurture internal and external relationships with key colleagues, collaborators and vendors.

UPSIDE Benefits!

• Stock options for all full-time incoming team members!
• 100% employer-paid healthcare premiums for team members (medical, dental, vision)
• Unlimited PTO / 3 Weeks PTO Accrued Annually
• DE&I (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) Council and People Engagement Programs
• Company-sponsored learning & development opportunities

 UPSIDE Foods is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Our company-wide mission is to create a product for everyone, so we are deeply committed to having teams and leaders that reflect this mission.