University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Job Profile Title

Manager A

Job Description Summary

The Gene Therapy Program (GTP) is entering a new era of unprecedented opportunity with the great potential to reshape the face of medicine as we know it. Our discoveries have set the stage for successful treatments and possibly even cures for devastating genetic diseases.

The laboratory of Dr. Jim Wilson, at GTP of the University of Pennsylvania, has been a leader in the development of innovative vector technology for close to three decades. We have emerged as the “go-to” organization for public and private partners, who want to participate in the gene therapy space. Currently, we are positioned to lead another round of vector innovation and establish pre-clinical and clinical proof-of-concept in therapeutic applications of in-vivo genome editing.

Continuation of all GTP positions is contingent upon funding.

Job Description

Our Vector Core is a state-of-the-art facility which provides vector-related materials and services in support of basic and translational research worldwide, producing vectors in support of IND-enabling research, conduct GLP assays, oversee CMO's in vector production and is expanding to conduct state-of-the art process development.

We are looking for a Process Development Scientist, to lead process development projects for upstream and/or downstream manufacturing for viral vectors. 

As Process Development Scientist, you be a subject matter expert in upstream or downstream manufacturing. You will independently lead lab studies to develop upstream or downstream manufacturing processes. Experiments will be performed to identify and define critical process parameters and critical attribute parameters. You will work design and scale-out vector processes, and support process characterization, as well as draft documentation for regulatory. You will also lead process optimization studies as needed. You will development and update process protocols/SOP's and batch records. You will direct the technology transfer of new or updated processes to the manufacturing group. You will train and mentor junior staff. 

You will work both  independently and as part of a team to accomplish project goals within specified timelines. Successful candidates will have a familiarity with upstream and downstream biologics manufacturing, tissue culture, column chromatography and other purification processes. 

This posting describes the responsibilities and requirements for a Process Development Scientist role. If you meet the qualifications outlined and have an interest in being considered for new positions that become available, please apply to this posting. Your information will be reviewed and you will be contacted directly if we would like to learn more about your background, in consideration for the current and/or future openings.

Job Location - City, State

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

Affirmative Action Statement 

Penn adheres to a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.

Special Requirements 

Background check required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.