Senior Scientist

Senior Scientist – Houston, TX Kelly Science & Clinical is currently seeking a Senior Scientist for a biopharma/biotech company in Southwest Houston. The Senior Scientist will support our client’s viral vector platform with a focus on late-stage development, process characterization, and recombinant AAV vector preparation for preclinical studies, toxicology batches, reference material, and clinical products. This role will involve routine cell culture, production in small- to mid-scale bioreactors, filtration, and cross-collaborative support with downstream and manufacturing teams. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in AAV gene therapy, upstream process development, and a strong understanding of cGMP guidelines. ResponsibilitiesIndependently perform routine suspension cell culture (sampling, cell counting, passaging)Independently maintain and manage upstream lab equipmentLead unit operations for viral vector production across development, toxicology, and GMP batches (shake flasks, rockers, 2L, 10L, and 50L bioreactors)Support upstream technology strategies from development stage through tech transfer, engineering runs, and GMP manufacturingEnsure adequate inventory and collaborate with supply chain for materials procurementDraft, edit, and review data capture forms, batch records, SOPs, and standard work elements for upstream equipment and operationsMaintain responsible laboratory practices, including GDP-compliant documentation, notebooks, and data captureCollaborate with pre-clinical, analytical development, quality control, and manufacturing teams to align on project timelines Qualifications EducationMinimum: B.S. in Biological Science, Chemistry, or Chemical EngineeringRequired Experience & SkillsExpertise in AAV gene therapy and upstream bioprocessingProficiency in suspension cell culture techniques, aseptic practices, and operation of biosafety cabinets, incubators, shakers, and centrifugation equipmentExperience in media preparation, monitoring, sampling, and analysis of cell culture growth and expansionHands-on experience with shake flasks and small-scale bioreactors in a process development settingScale-up experience using single-use bioreactors with viral vector processesAbility to work fairly independently in lab operations while interacting with Manufacturing and external teams to support technology transfer as neededStrong skills in MS Office, Excel, and basic cell kinetics analysis (growth curves, doubling times, viability)Preferred SkillsLarge-scale bioreactor and pilot-scale filtration experienceFamiliarity with GMP operations, SOP drafting, and documentation standardsExperience in AAV bioprocessing, capsid engineering, or cell line developmentMFCS/SCADA software knowledge is a plusStrong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilitiesDemonstrated ability to manage time effectively, meet project deadlines, and thrive in a collaborative PD/GMP environmentAttributesDeep understanding of late-stage process development and regulatory requirementsSelf-starter with high energy, initiative, and the ability to instill urgency and pace into projectsPassionate, collaborative, and creative, with a focus on advancing transformative gene therapies for patients and their familiesJob DetailsDirect HireMonday–Friday, Day ShiftLocation: Southwest HoustonCompensation: Salary dependent upon education and experience