Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate, Process Development

Title: Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate, Process Development

Location: South San Francisco, CA

Opportunity:

Epicrispr Biotechnologies is seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate to join our Process Development team. This individual will contribute to the development and optimization of our in-house AAV platform, support preclinical vector supply, and play an active role in day-to-day lab operations. The ideal candidate is a hands-on experimentalist with strong experience in mammalian cell culture and viral vector production, who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment. This role will support the development of scalable and robust processes to advance our gene regulation platform.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Execute upstream AAV production (2-5L) using transient transfection in suspension cell culture, supporting iterative process improvements
• Conduct studies to develop representative scale-down models for manufacturing processes
• Contribute to DoE studies (shake flasks) and process characterization experiments to evaluate and define critical process parameters (CPPs) and assess their impact on critical quality attributes (CQAs)
• Support upstream production campaigns to meet preclinical material demands on schedule and within quality expectations
• Assist in generating and analyzing data sets to support process development reports, tech transfer documents, and internal presentations
• Perform and analyze dPCR and flow cytometry experiments
• Maintain thorough, accurate, and timely documentation of experimental methods, data, and results
• Support general lab operations including equipment maintenance, reagent and consumable inventory management, vendor coordination, and sample tracking
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Research, Analytical Development, and Manufacturing teams

Qualifications:

• B.S. degree in Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related discipline with 4+ years of relevant industry experience (or M.S. with 2+ years)
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture (adherent and suspension), aseptic technique, and transient transfection
• Demonstrated proficiency in benchtop bioreactor AAV production (inoculation through clarification)
• Familiarity with AAV or viral vector production
• Experience with analytical methods such as PCR/dPCR and flow cytometry
• Solid data analysis skills with ability to interpret complex results, communicate findings, and recommend next steps
• Familiarity with statistical design and analysis, including Design of Experiments (DoE), is preferred
• Exceptional attention to detail with proven excellence in experimental documentation
• Strong critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills
• Self-motivated, proactive and takes initiative when managing multiple priorities
• Collaborative team player who communicates openly and effectively within department and cross-functionally
• Prior experience in a startup environment is a plus

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $80,000 to $108,000 USD annually. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including, without limitation, individual education, experience, tenure, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data, including potential adjustments for geographic location.