Scientist I, Analytical Development (Proteins)

About Forge 

Our mission at Forge Biologics, is to enable access to life changing gene therapies and help 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 Team

The Analytical Development Department is responsible for advancing analytical methods and processes to support the development and production of AAV gene therapy and plasmid products. This team specializes in designing and optimizing assays, ensuring the robustness and accuracy of analytical data, and contributes to the successful execution of critical projects in the field of gene therapy. With a commitment to excellence, the department enables clients to bring transformative treatments to patients with confidence and precision.

About The Role

The Scientist I, Analytical Development (Protein-Based Assays) will actively contribute to the development and qualification of protein-based assays for AAV gene therapy products. This position is responsible for designing experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure assay robustness and compliance. This individual will be developing capsid characterization as well as LC-MS based potency assays in the future.  This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in gene therapy while fostering professional growth within a dynamic and innovative environment.

What You’ll Do 

• Design and execute protein-based assays for the characterization and quality control of gene therapy products.
• Develop and optimize assay protocols, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure assay robustness.
• Utilize a variety of analytical techniques, such as AUC, Mass Spectrometry, HPLC, ELISA, to analyze and characterize products.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, providing valuable insights.    
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate assay results into project goals.         
• Participate in assay transfer activities and support assay validation efforts.            
• Assist in the preparation of technical reports and regulatory documentation.       
• Stay updated on scientific literature and industry advancements in protein-based assays.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives and method development.             
• Train and mentor junior team members in assay techniques and best practices.  
• Maintain a high standard of laboratory safety and compliance.

 What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., biology, biochemistry, molecular biology).
• Experience developing, validating, and troubleshooting assays, ideally within the context of biologics or gene therapy products.
• Experience using Liquid Chromatography – Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to perform routine analysis of environmental samples for the determination of contaminants of environmental concern.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and statistical tools.
• Ability to contribute to project planning and strategy discussions.
• Strong communication skills for technical reporting and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Skills

• PhD in a relevant scientific field (e.g., biology, biochemistry, molecular biology).
• Expertise in protein-based assay development, optimization, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with any of the following analytical techniques: AUC, Mass Spectrometry, HPLC, ELISA, Capillary Gel Electrophoresis, or Dynamic Light Scattering.

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