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.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Scientist II, Process Development - Upstream provides active leadership and execution of the laboratory experiments and protocols for upstream process development efforts. This individual will lead complex experiments, manage junior scientists, and actively contribute to the advancement of the viral vector manufacturing processes.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

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.

• Lead and oversee complex experiments for viral vector upstream process development, utilizing single-use bioreactors and advanced techniques.
• Provide technical expertise in bioreactor operation, cell culture, and transfection, acting as the Subject Matter Expert (SME).
• Drive process optimization initiatives to enhance viral vector yields, quality, and scalability, contributing to project leadership.
• Conduct independent research and lead projects, compiling and contributing experimental data for publications or reports.
• Independently present results and prepare publications or reports, demonstrating strong communication skills.
• Manage and mentor junior team members, reviewing experimental data and providing guidance and direction.
• Perform individual performance reviews, providing coaching/feedback to ensure employee development.
• Generates protocols/templates that can be utilized by junior team members.
• Develop and revise standard operating procedures (SOPs) and batch records to ensure process consistency.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of innovative process development strategies.
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory activities, including equipment maintenance, supplies management, and cleanliness.
• Support internal process transfer activities from Process Development to GMP.
• Demonstrate a breadth of scientific expertise (knowledge and technique) in laboratory functions that are pertinent to company goals.
• Assigns experiments in a way that maximizes use of resources.
• Review the documentation (lab notebooks, presentations, reports) of other scientists.
• Serve as a role model on the team, emphasizing safety, teaching/learning mindset, and a positive team culture.