Senior Scientist, Process Development

Kytopen is streamlining cell engineering for use in next-generation cell therapies. We enable transformative therapies with our patent-pending continuous Flowfect® non-viral transfection platform. Flowfect® is a fast, scalable, and gentle process that yields billions of high-quality engineered cells in minutes while maintaining cell health and function. We seek passionate, pioneering individuals to join our mission to deliver this transformative technology. 

We are looking for a Senior Scientist, Process Development, who will be responsible for planning and execution of scientific efforts for Kytopen’s scientific research team. The qualified candidate will demonstrate the ability to independently execute biology research and development as required for the use of the Kytopen Flowfect® cell transfection systems. This individual will work in coordination with all internal and external personnel and resources required to deliver on our research roadmap in order to realize the company’s commercial success. The ideal candidate will be a detail oriented, independent individual possessing strong analytical and communication skills with a degree in biological engineering, chemical engineering, immunology, or a related field. 

Responsibilities and Duties (What we need) 

• Design and conduct experiments to develop and support Kytopen’s Flowfect® technology, product development and characterization 

• Lead scientific efforts with both internal strategic development and customer-driven projects to ensure milestones delivered with targets achieved 

• Collaborate with and support the Engineering team in defining requirements, specifications, and procedures for Flowfect® technology platforms 

• Work with external collaborators to define project workplans, align on deliverables and milestones, and technology transfer. 

• Serve as subject matter expert in internal and external scientific efforts utilizing the Flowfect® technology 

• Perform in vitro cellular assays with an emphasis on flow cytometry and PCR 

• Ensure excellent laboratory approach, adherence to protocol, and meticulous lab documentation 

• Generate high-quality experimental reports for internal and external presentation and review 

• Perform statistical analysis on characterization/validation data 

• Maintain shared responsibility of inventory management, equipment maintenance, and continuous process improvement 

Requirements (About you) 

What: 

•  Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in biological engineering, chemical engineering, immunology, or a related field 

• At least 6 years of industry experience with a biotech, diagnostic, pharmaceutical company (at least 3 years with a Ph.D.) 

• Experience working with human HSC and/or immune cell biology, including ex vivo culture and genetic manipulation of primary cell types, and viral and non-viral biomolecule delivery.

• Experience developing control strategies (PAR and NOR), conducting risk assessments (FMEA) and creating scale down models. 

• Experience in standard processing techniques including multi-parameter flow cytometry, molecular biology, immunological assays, and cell culture 

• Familiarity with gene editing via current technologies (e.g. CRISPR, TALENs), including the ability to perform CRISPR screens with downstream functional assays 

• Experience with leveraging high throughput screening for drug discovery and development 

• Experience with design of experiments tools such as JMP and practical knowledge of statistical analysis 

• Strong organizational, analytical, problem-solving, root-cause-analysis, and trouble-shooting skills 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills 

How: 

• Ability to work within a diverse workforce and provide a positive and motivational work environment 

• Scientifically motivated with the ability to design, conduct, and analyze experiments 

• Entrepreneurial and comfortable in a fast-paced environment 

• Ability to adapt to the shifting constraints of a commercial organization while maintaining high performance and morale 

• Self-motivated and collaborative, with excellent time management 

• Creative and adaptable in identifying and implementing best practices across team 

• Ability to work in a matrixed project team, balancing internal and external activities 

• Demonstrated leadership ability to exemplify Kytopen’s values of: Impact, Passion, Integrity, Resilience, and Inclusivity 

Benefits: 

We are a values-driven, creative team, and we know that we’re only successful because of the talented people on our team. We offer competitive compensation including a 401k match and equity, a comprehensive package of health benefits, and a supportive work environment that includes hybrid work schedules, flexible vacation, paid family leave, and continuing education support.