Scientist II (Lentiviral Production)

We are hiring a Scientist II to support our biotechnology client's Cell Therapy department. This hands-on, laboratory-based role will focus on research-scale lentiviral vector production, vector characterization, and analytical assay development. The Scientist may also generate and characterize materials for use in preclinical in vivo studies conducted by collaborating teams. This position does not involve conducting animal studies. The successful candidate will bring strong experimental judgment, technical expertise in vector production and cell-based analytics, and a collaborative approach to advancing research programs.This is a 12 month contract position in South San Francisco, CA.ResponsibilitiesExecute and optimize research-scale lentiviral vector production workflows, including approaches that support increased production capacity and transition to suspension culture.Produce and characterize research-grade lentiviral vectors for in vitro evaluation and, as needed, to support preclinical in vivo studies.Develop, optimize, and execute molecular and cell-based assays to assess vector quality, titer, gene delivery, CAR expression, and functional activity.Perform primary human cell culture and engineering studies to support evaluation of delivery platforms for in vivo cell therapy applications.Apply flow cytometry to assess transduction efficiency, CAR expression, and cell phenotype.Collaborate with project teams to define material requirements, coordinate production timelines, and provide supporting analytical data.Independently plan experiments, troubleshoot technical challenges, and interpret results in collaboration with project team members.Analyze and communicate findings through clear experimental summaries and presentations at internal scientific meetings.Maintain accurate and timely electronic laboratory records, document methods, and contribute to reproducible workflows.Support laboratory operations, including equipment onboarding and maintenance, and adhere to applicable biosafety, laboratory safety, and training requirements.QualificationsBachelor's degree and 5 years industry experience, or PhD in Immunology, Virology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Cell Biology, or a related discipline.Hands-on experience with lentiviral vector production and characterization.Strong proficiency in aseptic mammalian cell culture and experience working with primary human immune cells, preferably T cells.Experience developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting molecular or cell-based analytical assays.Technical proficiency in flow cytometry and at least one quantitative molecular assay platform, such as qPCR or ddPCR.Demonstrated ability to independently design experiments, critically interpret data, and resolve technical challenges.Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills, with the ability to manage concurrent experiments and collaborate effectively.Preferred QualificationsThree or more years of relevant post-graduate research experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, or an academic setting.Experience producing or characterizing gene delivery vectors for in vivo CAR T or related preclinical research programs.Experience with suspension-based lentiviral vector production, scale-up, or process development.Experience with CAR T-cell functional assays and multiparameter flow cytometry.Pay$60.75-$63.11Why Choose R&D Partners?As an employee, you have access to a comprehensive benefits package including:Medical insurance – PPO, HMO & HSADental & Vision insurance401k planEmployee Assistance ProgramLong-term disabilityWeekly payrollExpense reimbursementOnline timecard approvalR&D Partners is a global functional service provider and strategic staffing resource specializing in scientific, clinical research & engineering. We provide job opportunities within major pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies.R&D Partners is an equal-opportunity employer.