Upstream Scientist

Title- Bench Scientist - II Location- Andover, MA Duration- 12-month contract (potential to extend) Position Overview We are seeking two highly motivated scientists to support the upstream mammalian process development in a laboratory environment. This role focuses on hands-on bioreactor operations, mammalian cell culture, and experimental execution to support biologics development (e.g., monoclonal, bispecific, and Tri specific antibodies). This is a lab-intensive role requiring strong technical expertise, collaboration skills, and the ability to communicate experimental findings effectively. Key Responsibilities Perform hands-on mammalian cell culture using bioreactors (CHO systems) Set up, operate, and monitor bench-scale bioreactors Design, execute, and analyze experiments Maintain accurate lab documentation (lab notebooks, batch records) Analyze cell culture performance (cell density, metabolites, nutrients) Write experimental plans and technical reports Collaborate cross-functionally with upstream (bacterial), downstream, and analytical teams Order lab supplies and maintain inventory Participate in weekend/on-call rotation as needed Work Environment ~70% lab work / 30% desk-based work Primarily in one building, with occasional movement across campus for sample handling Team size: ~10 scientists (multiple levels from lab tech to principal scientist) Required Qualifications (Must-Haves) Bachelor’s degree in biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Bioengineering, or related scientific field Minimum 3+ years of relevant lab experience (industry preferred; strong academic experience considered) Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture (CHO cells) Experience operating bench-scale bioreactors Strong aseptic technique experience (required) Experience designing and executing experiments independently Ability to document work and write technical reports Strong communication and teamwork skills Preferred Qualifications (Nice-to-Haves): Experience with perfusion systems (continuous culture) Familiarity with bioreactor control systems (e.g., SCADA, DeltaV) Experience with electronic lab notebooks (ELN) or LIMS Exposure to analytical tools for cell culture monitoring Familiarity with statistical analysis software Additional Details: • No travel required • Weekend rotation: approximately 1 weekend per month o Typically 3–4 hours/day (Saturday & Sunday) o Paid as overtime • Candidates must be comfortable working in a highly collaborative lab environment Success Profile: The ideal candidate is: • Hands-on and technically strong in the lab • A clear communicator who can share results effectively across teams • Able to work independently with minimal supervision • Collaborative and team-oriented Interview Process 1 onsite interview Includes 3 x 30-minute sessions with team members