Kelly® Science & Clinical is seeking an Associate Scientist and Scientist, Upstream Process Development opportunities with one of our clients, a leading biologics CDMO in the Los Angeles, CA area. If you are driven by the prospect of translating cutting-edge scientific discoveries into tangible advancements and are poised to advance your career, join us as we pioneer progress in the biotechnology industry.
Workplace: Onsite in the Los Angeles area
Position Title: Associate Scientist/Scientist, Upstream Process Development
Salary range:

• Associate Scientist: 100,000-120,000 per year
  

• Scientist: 120,000-150,000 per year

Are you eager to drive innovation at the leading edge of biopharmaceutical manufacturing? Join a dynamic team at a top biologics CDMO, where you’ll shape advanced upstream processes that turn scientific breakthroughs into impactful therapies for patients worldwide.
Your Role:
As a Scientist, Upstream Process Development, you’ll take the lead in designing, optimizing, and scaling mammalian cell culture processes for advanced protein and biologics production. You’ll be responsible for driving process improvements from development through tech transfer and validation, collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-performance manufacturing solutions.
Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and execution of experiments to develop, optimize, and scale up cell culture processes using shake flasks, wave, and stirred-tank bioreactors.
  

• Innovate media and feed strategies, adapt cell lines to serum-free/suspension conditions, and troubleshoot process and equipment challenges.
  

• Direct seed train development, harvest operations, and critical data analysis to ensure process consistency and regulatory compliance.
  

• Prepare and review technical documents, SOPs, and batch records; deliver clear reports and presentations for internal and external partners.
  

• Drive technology transfer and validation, ensuring robust hand-off to manufacturing and supporting regulatory submissions.
  

• Mentor and support junior team members, fostering an environment of scientific excellence and collaboration.
  

• Stay updated on industry advances and bring creative solutions to process and operational challenges.
  

• Uphold high safety and quality standards in all activities.

Qualifications:

• MS or PhD in Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, or related field; Bachelor’s degree with substantial experience considered.
  

• 5+ years of hands-on industry experience developing and optimizing mammalian cell culture processes.
  

• Expertise with a wide range of mammalian cell lines (CHO, NSO, HEK, etc.), bioreactor platforms, and analytical tools.
  

• Proven ability to lead projects, troubleshoot complex problems, and execute process scale-up and tech transfer in a GMP or regulated environment.
  

• Excellent communication, data analysis, and documentation skills.

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