Associate Scientist I, Analytical Development

About Forge  

Forge, a member of Ajinomoto Bio-Pharma Services, is a gene therapy development engine, focused on enabling access to life changing gene therapies and helping bring them from idea into reality. We partner with innovators in the gene therapy community: scientists, physicians, biotech/pharma companies, and patient groups. We bring expertise in gene therapy manufacturing and therapeutics development to the table, helping to champion teams that are navigating the long road from the lab bench to the bedside. Our goal is simple but vital to patients living with disease, and we take it seriously. With a patient-first approach, we are forging new models for working together to better accelerate these transformative medicines to reach those who need them the most.   

Forge is based in Columbus, Ohio, in a 200,000 square foot facility known affectionately by team members as, the Hearth. The Hearth, is a custom-designed cGMP facility dedicated to AAV manufacturing and hosts scalable, end-to-end manufacturing services.  

About The Role  

The Associate Scientist I, Analytical Development (BLAZE) plays a pivotal role in executing swift and precise analytical tests for AAV gene therapy and plasmid products. Collaborating with a dynamic team of experts, you'll contribute to the advancement of groundbreaking therapies by leveraging cutting-edge analytical techniques and ensuring adherence to rigorous quality standards. This entry-level position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the critical analytical aspects of gene therapy development.

What You’ll Do  

• Execute assays as directed by management to support gene therapy product development.             
• Prepare reagents, assist in sample preparation, and maintain laboratory equipment for assay execution.     
• Analyze and document experimental data, ensuring accuracy and completeness of records.             
• Participate in assay optimization and troubleshooting activities under supervision.              
• Contribute to the execution of analytical methods for product characterization.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure timely completion of projects.                
• Assist in preparing reports and presentations summarizing assay results and findings.        
• Adhere to laboratory safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized workspace.      
• Learn and stay updated on relevant scientific literature and industry best practices.            
• Actively participate in training programs and seek opportunities for skill development.

What You’ll Bring  

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., biology, biochemistry, molecular biology).
• Basic laboratory skills, including pipetting, cell culture, and sample preparation.
• Familiarity with basic data analysis tools and software (e.g., Excel). 
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs). 
• Demonstrated teamwork and communication skills within a laboratory setting.
• Proficiency with the conduct of qPCR or ddPCR, cell-based assays, capillary gel electrophoresis or SDS-PAGE, immunoassays and knowledge of work with plasmids is preferred.

Work Environment and Physical Demands  

This position works in both a laboratory environment and typical office environment where the physical work demands will vary depending on the specific tasks and duties required of the job. The employee will be stationary (standing/sitting) for extended periods of time. Employees regularly wear personal protective equipment based on the task being performed. Must be able to work in a confined space, such as a clean room or laboratory environment. Ability to identify small details within the field of vision, distinguish between different colors, and accurately identify objects within a specific area. 

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned. 

Forge Biologics is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. Forge Biologics, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

Life at Forge  

We are a team of diverse, driven and passionate people working together to trailblaze a new model for how we make medicines to treat patients with genetic diseases. Our team members use their creativity and talent to invent new solutions, meet new demands, and offer the most effective services in the industry. Forge’s core values lay the foundation for H.O.P.E. It provides us a common purpose that we all understand, work towards and live by.  

HARDWORKING - We work hard and smart, making a persistent and determined effort toward success. Working hard, with focus and desire is the key. 

OPEN - We strive to be approachable, actively listen and encourage others to contribute and speak up. We positively offer and receive constructive feedback. 

PURPOSE DRIVEN - We are passionate about working towards and delivering on our mission to manufacture gene therapies. 

ENGAGED - We are fully absorbed by and enthusiastic about our work and take positive action to further Forge’s vision, mission and goals. 

We’ve Got You Covered 

We take the health and happiness of our employees seriously and are consistently evaluating new ways to make our benefits truly UnFORGEttable. 

• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance that starts on your first day at Forge, with 90% of premiums covered for team members as well as dependents 

• Flexible PTO (plus 14 paid company holidays) 

• Annual bonus for all full-time employees 

• 401(K) company match 

• Fully-stocked kitchen with free food/drinks 

• 12 weeks of paid parental leave - additional discount programs include childcare support & dependent care 

• Employee Assistance Program  

• Wellness benefits (financial planning services, mental health counseling, employer paid disability) 

• Professional & Personal development resources - LinkedIn Learning, a dedicate training staff in-house, mentoring opportunities & access to leadership development coaches