Senior Scientist

Senior Scientist – Houston, TX Kelly Science & Clinical is currently seeking a

Senior

Scientist

for a biopharma/biotech company in Southwest Houston. The Senior Scientist will support our client’s viral vector platform with a focus on late-stage development, process characterization, and recombinant AAV vector preparation for preclinical studies, toxicology batches, reference material, and clinical products. This role will involve routine cell culture, production in small- to mid-scale bioreactors, filtration, and cross-collaborative support with downstream and manufacturing teams. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in AAV gene therapy, upstream process development, and a strong understanding of cGMP guidelines. Responsibilities Independently perform routine suspension cell culture (sampling, cell counting, passaging) Independently maintain and manage upstream lab equipment Lead unit operations for viral vector production across development, toxicology, and GMP batches (shake flasks, rockers, 2L, 10L, and 50L bioreactors) Support upstream technology strategies from development stage through tech transfer, engineering runs, and GMP manufacturing Ensure adequate inventory and collaborate with supply chain for materials procurement Draft, edit, and review data capture forms, batch records, SOPs, and standard work elements for upstream equipment and operations Maintain responsible laboratory practices, including GDP-compliant documentation, notebooks, and data capture Collaborate with pre-clinical, analytical development, quality control, and manufacturing teams to align on project timelines

Qualifications Education Minimum: B.S. in Biological Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering Required Experience & Skills Expertise in AAV gene therapy and upstream bioprocessing Proficiency in suspension cell culture techniques, aseptic practices, and operation of biosafety cabinets, incubators, shakers, and centrifugation equipment Experience in media preparation, monitoring, sampling, and analysis of cell culture growth and expansion Hands-on experience with shake flasks and small-scale bioreactors in a process development setting Scale-up experience using single-use bioreactors with viral vector processes Ability to work fairly independently in lab operations while interacting with Manufacturing and external teams to support technology transfer as needed Strong skills in MS Office, Excel, and basic cell kinetics analysis (growth curves, doubling times, viability) Preferred Skills Large-scale bioreactor and pilot-scale filtration experience Familiarity with GMP operations, SOP drafting, and documentation standards Experience in AAV bioprocessing, capsid engineering, or cell line development MFCS/SCADA software knowledge is a plus Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities Demonstrated ability to manage time effectively, meet project deadlines, and thrive in a collaborative PD/GMP environment Attributes Deep understanding of late-stage process development and regulatory requirements Self-starter with high energy, initiative, and the ability to instill urgency and pace into projects Passionate, collaborative, and creative, with a focus on advancing transformative gene therapies for patients and their families

Job Details Direct Hire Monday–Friday, Day Shift Location:

Southwest Houston Compensation:

Salary dependent upon education and experience