Associate Scientist / Research Scientist, Cell Line and Process Development

Position: Associate Scientist / Research Scientist, Cell Line and Process Development

Function: Research and Development

Company: Phanes Therapeutics, Inc.

Location: San Diego, CA

Phanes Therapeutics is a clinical stage biotech company focused on innovative discovery research and clinical development in oncology. The company received three IND clearances from the FDA recently: PT199 for solid tumors, PT886 for pancreatic, GEJ and gastric cancers, and PT217 for small cell lung cancer (SCLC). In addition, both PT886 and PT217 have received orphan drug and Fast Track designations from the FDA. We are looking for motivated and passionate people to join us to help discover and develop new medicines and improve healthcare. We believe that innovative thinking, seamless execution, teamwork, and integrity are key values for building success. Our mission is to become a major source of innovation in the biotech and pharma industry.

At Phanes, we understand that scientific innovation is a challenging task and that is why we are looking for exceptionally talented people to join us on our mission. We are committed to fostering an innovative and fun working environment where individuals can pursue creative ideas and deliver results, because we know that our success depends on how to realize the true potential of our people.

Job Summary:

This position seeks an individual to advance our antibody therapeutics programs to the clinic. The individual will be responsible for assisting our cell line and process development efforts. Candidates should have a demonstrated record of excellent competency in laboratory research, with a focus on protein-related work, cell line development, and/or process development, and should have a strong understanding of mammalian cell biology, biochemistry and chemical biology, and immuno-oncology. This position is located at our facility in San Diego, CA and will report to a Director at Phanes Therapeutics.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Cell line development for the production of antibodies:
    • CHO cell transfection.
    • Single cell cloning and isolation, and selecting top clones with favorable characteristics (i.e. growth, expression profile, stability).
    • Single cell clone expansion.
    • Generate Research Cell Banks (RCB) and confirm stability and copy number for lead clones.
  2. Set up, maintain, and troubleshoot single use bioreactors up to 50 L:
    • Maintain cell cultures, prepare tubing and media.
    • Process development of top clones in bioreactors to develop processes that are transferable for further manufacturing.
    • Monitor bioreactor(s) throughout the production process, from inoculation to harvest, to ensure high protein production yield. Coordinate with colleagues to ensure protein purification and analytical processes are completed.
    • Carry out GLP-like production of antibodies at pilot scale to prepare for large scale clinical lot production at CDMOs.
  3. Maintain detailed documentation of experiments through lab notebooks and pre-clinical study reports.
  4. Regularly communicate with team members regarding project status and advancement of project goals.

Qualifications:

  1. Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree (BS/BA/MS) in biology, biochemistry, chemical biology, or a related life sciences or engineering field.
  2. 0-5 years of postgraduate experience in a laboratory research and development setting (biotechnology/pharmaceutical industry is preferred).
  3. Strong background knowledge in protein chemistry, molecular biology, and biochemistry is preferred.
  4. Experience in mammalian cell culture and sterile technique is required.
  5. Knowledge and experience in cell line development for the production of antibodies is preferred.
  6. Knowledge and experience with bioreactors and their operation is preferred.
  7. Excellent attention to detail, ability to design and perform experiments and maintain detailed and organized documentation.
  8. Able to collaborate proficiently with team members and contribute meaningfully towards project goals.

Our Benefits Include:

  • Competitive compensation package including bonus opportunities and stock options opportunities
  • Exceptional career growth opportunities
  • Excellent medical, dental and vision plans
  • Generous vacation and sick leave plans
  • 16 paid company holidays per year plus flexible floating holidays
  • An opportunity to do truly meaningful work to make a lasting impact
  • On-site gym, ample parking including complimentary EV charging stations, company-sponsored events, etc.
  • Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for eligible out-of-pocket health care and dependent day care expenses
  • Health savings accounts (HSAs) a trust or custodial account to pay or reimburse certain medical expenses
  • Life and AD&D insurance, short and long term disability plans
  • Employee assistance program (EAP) provides employee counseling programs and various online resources
  • Additional voluntary benefits including pet insurance, auto and home insurance, commuter benefits, legal plans, and more

The annual base salary we reasonably expect to pay is $68,000.00 - $100,000.00. Individual pay decisions depend on various factors, such as primary work location, complexity and responsibility of role, job duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills.