Downstream Development Scientist

GlaxoSmithKline ,
Stevenage, Hertfordshire

Overview

Job Description

Downstream Development Scientist Biopharm Downstream Process Research (DPR) - Stevenage The Biopharm Downstream Process Research (DPR) group within R&D at GSK is looking for an enthusiastic and passionate scientist, to join its dynamic team of scientists, developing purification processes to support the progression of GSK's innovative early stage Biopharm portfolio. This person will have the opportunity to utilise state of the art purification hardware, cutting edge analytics and execute the latest process development approaches. This pivotal lab-based role sits within GSK's wider Biopharm Process Research (BPR) group, which straddles drug discovery and product development. Scientists can expect to deal with a range of different biomolecules, from monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) which render themselves amenable to platform purification, to more challenging modalities such as bispecific antibodies and recombinant proteins. Key responsibilities: * Developing robust and scalable purification processes and then transferring them to GSK's large-scale manufacturing facilities, to supply Phase I clinical trials * The timely development and optimisation of robust downstream purification processes which can be scaled up to supply material for early stage clinical trials (Phase I & II) * Performing necessary work packages to characterise purification process performance and where necessary, highlight and discharge biomanufacturing risks * The production of reference batches of material to support analytical development and preclinical studies * Authoring detailed technical reports and process transfer documents to support tech transfer activities * The use of high-throughput automation in process development * Staying current with the latest Downstream purification technology improvements, and process development approaches, and leading continuous improvement efforts to maintain GSK's technical competitiveness * maintain GSK's technical competitiveness * Working with key stakeholders (e.g. Process and Analytical Development) to ensure alignment of processes and practices. * Contributing to and potentially leading project and matrix teams as appropriate to deliver both the GSK portfolio as well as technology development objectives. * Seeking all opportunities to develop and maintain a strong Intellectual Property position. * Maintaining relationships with external professional, trade, and scientific organisations consistent with GSK business needs. Essential criteria: * MSc or Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering or related discipline * Background in Protein Sciences and/or Biomanufacturing * Experience of working on complex research projects both as an individual and as part of a team Desirable criteria: * PhD in related discipline * 3 years' of relevant industrial experience * Competent in running AKTA platforms such as AKTA Avant, AKTA Explorer and AKTA Pilot * Detailed understanding of common downstream processing unit operations and Bioprocess development (with a focus at the early stage) * Familiar with Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs) and Quality by Design (QBD) concepts and standard process development strategies and approaches * Understanding of how the production of a protein can impact its structure and function and vice versa. * Be able to perform quantitative and qualitative protein assay techniques * Strong ability to build professional relationships * Proven track record in working within functional and matrix teams * Excellent planning and communication skills About GSK: GSK are a science-led global healthcare company that puts patients first. Our innovative medicines, vaccines and consumer health products enable millions of people across the world to do more, feel better and live longer. Join us as a scientist within R&D and you can look forward to a worthwhile and fulfilling career. Great emphasis is placed in on-the-job learning and development to help you to thrive in our open and inclusive environment. We also trust and respect our people and reward their performance. As a company driven by our values of Patient focus, Transparency, Respect and Integrity, we know inclusion and diversity are essential for us to be able to succeed. We want all our colleagues to thrive at GSK bringing their unique experiences, ensuring they feel good and to keep growing their careers. As a candidate for a role, we want you to feel the same way. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are open to all talent. In the US, we also adhere to Affirmative Action principles. This ensures that all qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, colour, national origin, religion, gender, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, disability, genetic information, military service, covered/protected veteran status or any other federal, state or local protected class*(*US only). We believe in an agile workin