Cell Processing Technologist II

The successful candidate will work in our state-of-the-art, good manufacturing practices (GMP) facility in a team of cell processing technologists, growing therapeutic T-cells for the treatment of patients with viral infections and cancer. They will be training in manufacturing of virus-specific T-cell and tumor-speciific T-cells according to GMP, using a range of standard operating procedures (SOPs) some of which involve gene modification, for example to manufacture CAR.T-cells. An understanding of cell biology and immunology as well as experience in cell culture is preferred. They will also be involved in patient infusions. We place a strong emphasis on training.

Job Purpose

Performs therapeutic cell processing and cryopreservation for the Center for Cell and Gene Therapy.

Job Duties

• Performs therapeutic cell processing and cryopreservation for the Center for Cell and Gene Therapy.
• Develops, maintains, and improves computerized databases and electronic worksheets recording activities.
• Processes data and generates reports for patient files and QA/QC program.
• Supervises the activities of junior processing staff.
• Assists with the training of new staff.
• Assures that activities are in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Implements the transition of new cell processing technologies.
• Ensures that the laboratory is fully prepared and stocked to perform scheduled and emergency cell processing at all times.
• Maintains and prepares equipment for use.
• Assists in the preparation and writing of abstracts, reports, papers, and presentations on the activities of the cell processing group.
• Responsible for job related training.
• Writes deviation reports, incident reports and validation reports.
• Attends GMP training webinairs and job-related seminars and meetings.
• Liaises with other groups involved in cell therapy studies, such as physicians, translational researchers, research co-ordinators, regulatory affairs staff, quality cointrol and quality assurance staff.
• Maintains professional and corteous relationships with other staff members.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field.
• Two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• BS or Master’s in a science-related area.
• At least 4 years work experience in science field, with a particular emphasis on cell and tissue culture.

Other

• Team work is crucial for this position, so good communication skills are required.
• The cells cultured are for clinical use, so attention to detail is required.
• Liquid nitrogen tanks are used for cell cryopreservation frequently, biosafety cabinets and incubators are thoroughly cleaned monthly, therefore the ability to lift 15-20 lb. of weight and physical activity is required.
• Will carry an on-call pager on a rotational basis.
• May have to respond to equipment alarms after hours or on weekends.
• Processes patient blood samples for product manufacture.
• Occasionally work over the weekend or holidays is required and will be compensated according to BCM policy.