Process Development Engineer/Scientist, Upstream

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Job description

About Us:

Vaxart is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a range of oral recombinant vaccines based on its proprietary delivery platform. Vaxart vaccines are administered using convenient room temperature-stable tablets that can be stored and shipped without refrigeration.

Vaxart has demonstrated that its proprietary tablet vaccine delivery platform is suitable to deliver recombinant vaccines, positioning the company to develop oral versions of currently marketed vaccines and to design recombinant vaccines for new indications. Its development programs currently include tablet vaccines designed to protect against coronavirus, norovirus, seasonal influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as a therapeutic vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV), Vaxart's first immuno-oncology indication.

Our mission is the promotion of global health through the development of effective vaccines that can be administered by tablet rather than by injection, providing for the simple and efficient distribution and administration of safe vaccines in any setting.

We are looking for a Process Development Engineer/Scientist, Upstream to join our growing South San Francisco team!

Summary:

The PD Engineer/Scientist, Upstream is responsible for designing, executing, and reporting experimental activities in cell culture process development laboratory with a focus on developing a next generation Ad5 production process. This will entail studies to establish fundamental principles of the underlying biology of viral vector production, as well as applying these results for defining cell culture operations for GMP production. Using their experience and training, the position troubleshoots existing platforms and assists in manufacturing operations as well. The PD Engineer/Scientist communicates progress and results to senior management via technical reports and or presentations. They must work closely with Downstream Process Development and Formulation Development units as well as Manufacturing organizations to establish unit operations that fit manufacturing constraints and corporate timelines. A successful candidate will be expected to work with in-house and partnering development and manufacturing organizations in tech-transfer and manufacturing support roles. The position should help establish a culture of general compliance, safe operations, and proper documentation and communication of results. Familiarity with viral vector production would be a significant asset.

Responsibilities:

• Depending on experience, may be asked to supervise junior members of the group.
• Executes experimental programs in mammalian cell culture and virus production. Assists in development of robust and cost-effective commercial scale production processes.
• Writes and/or contributes to protocols, development reports, batch records, standard operating procedures, and other technical reports in support of manufacturing and process tech transfer. Ensures that results are properly archived and communicated.
• Responsible for understanding and applying data generated from experiments and literature used to modify/optimize process parameters. Contributes to the evaluation of new technology and procedures.
• Ensures that training and compliance records for themselves and their staff are up to date and appropriate.
• Ensures that all safety procedures are followed.
• Proactively communicates with internal and external stakeholders. Foster relationships with contract manufacturing organizations.

Requirements:

• Bachelor or Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biology or related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 5 - 15 years of relevant industry experience.
• Experience in Mammalian cell culture in a GMP environment, including stirred tank operations.
• Familiarity in production and purification of viral products.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to gain cooperation of others.
• Experience in QC issues.
• Sterile techniques and hazardous/infectious material handling.

Vaccination Requirement:

Vaxart has implemented a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy which requires our employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID as a condition of employment. Vaxart will make reasonable accommodations for valid exemptions based on disability, medical, or religious reasons. Vaxart prioritizes sound science and available facts to best ensure the ongoing safety of our employees and the community.

Vaxart offers team members a competitive compensation and benefits package, including a robust health plan, bonus program, stock options, 401K with employer matching, tuition assistance, and work life balance.

Vaxart is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity. We are committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and affirmative action for all applicants and employees. Equal opportunity and consideration are afforded to all qualified applicants and employees in personnel actions, which include recruiting and hiring, selection for training, promotion, rates of pay or other compensation, transfer, discipline, demotion, and layoff or termination. Vaxart does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, family medical history or genetic information, citizenship, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, military status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law, ordinance or regulation.

Vaxart offers team members a competitive compensation and benefits package, including a bonus program, stock options, 401K with employer matching, tuition assistance, and work life balance.

Vaxart is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity. We are committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and affirmative action for all applicants and employees. Equal opportunity and consideration are afforded to all qualified applicants and employees in personnel actions, which include recruiting and hiring, selection for training, promotion, rates of pay or other compensation, transfer, discipline, demotion, and layoff or termination. Vaxart does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, family medical history or genetic information, citizenship, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, military status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law, ordinance or regulation.