Interim MS&T Scientist (12 Month FTC)

The purpose of this role is to support the introduction, optimisation and delivery of new processes within the CGT Catapult Manufacturing Innovation Centres (MICs). The MS&T (Manufacturing Science and Technology) Scientist contribute to new product introduction, technology transfer, and GMP manufacturing across Cell Therapy and Viral Gene Therapy processes and aligned modalities. 

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide technical expertise in a recognised modality, with a broad understanding of aligned technologies 
  • Apply in-depth knowledge of process engineering, aseptic handling, molecular biology, biochemistry and/or purification techniques to evaluate and optimise cell and gene therapy methodologies to support technology transfer of robust and scalable manufacturing processes 
  • Execute hands-on developmental or scale-up runs associated with the establishment of new processes within CGT Catapult 
  • Support the creation and execution of technology transfer project plans for the introduction of new processes to the CGT Catapult MICs in Stevenage and Braintree  
  • Collaborate with Scale Enabling Technology (SET), Quality, and project teams across the CGT Catapult 
  • Facilitate collaboration with therapy/technology developers, CMOs and CROs, both at the CGT Catapult MICs and by offsite working 
  • Ensure documentation compliance with onsite QMS and HSE 
  • Author and review new GMP procedures and batch related documentation for the CGT Catapult MICs 
  • Produce project reports and present progress against project deliverables 
  • Deputise for the MS&T Senior Scientist(s) as required, representing CGT Catapult in technical collaborations 
Experience: 
  • Demonstrable academic or industrial experience in a process development and/or GMP manufacturing setting (essential) 
  • Demonstrable experience in two or more cell and gene based therapy methodologies e.g. mammalian/primary cell culture, single-use stirred tank reactor (STR) operation, chromatography, tangential flow filtration (TFF) and/or normal flow filtration, continuous centrifugation, aseptic handling including tube welding and sealing etc. (essential) 
  • Demonstrable experience of working within either the biotech, biopharma, CMO, CRO or other types of commercial-facing organisations (desirable) 
  • Demonstrable experience of the Quality by Design (QbD) approach to product development (desirable) 
  • Demonstrable experience of working to commercial timelines and within budget (desirable) 

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

  • Highly motivated, pragmatic, and practical to support the mission of the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult to accelerate the development of a commercial cell and gene-based therapy industry in the UK 
  • Desire to establish a high-profile career within cell and gene sector and the personal drive to help push the sector to be a commercial success 
  • Proven knowledge of cutting-edge solutions to address challenges of scalability, and enclosed disposable systems 
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills (including presentation skills) 
  • Ability to quickly establish credibility and build rapport and trust 
  • Proven ability to engage constructively with colleagues at all levels across different departments to deliver objectives and to respond to a wide range of Collaborator and management needs 
  • Ambitious, collaborative, driven 
  • A good team player with a hands-on approach, and adaptable to new challenges 
  • Flexible and pragmatic, able to learn quickly and respond flexibly to project needs and priorities 
  • Flexibility towards work assignments and new learning 
  • Resilient, with the ability to manage multiple and varied tasks and prioritise workload within a fast-paced professional environment, with a strong attention to detail 
  • A “roll your sleeves up” hands-on attitude towards varying work assignments 
  • Comfortable operating autonomously once goals and objectives are set 
  • Ability to work well under pressure and to be able to take the initiative when completing tasks to deliver objectives and to respond to a wide range of Collaborator and management needs 
  • Proficient in Microsoft 365 applications, with strong IT, data management and presentation skills 
  • A positive attitude towards learning, personal and professional development 
  • Keeps up to date with professional knowledge, expertise and best practice 
  • Willingness to travel as required by the role 

Education / Qualifications: 
  • Educated to a degree level within a Life Science subject