Principal Scientist, Early Pipeline Development

Principal Scientist I/II – Onsite, San Diego, CA. Responsible for developing downstream purification processes for next‑generation AAV gene therapy and early‑stage process development. Lead a 3‑5 person downstream process team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a 3‑5 person downstream process team; provide technical support, training, and SME knowledge to direct reports.
• Coordinate activities with associates across upstream process and analytical teams.
• Develop strategies in collaboration with Disease Areas and partner with various line functions to support early drug discovery from target selection and validation through lead compound selection and developability assessment.
• Serve as a subject matter expert to transfer manufacturing process knowledge to the Technical Research & Development team and advance pipeline programs into clinical phases.
• Lead effort and work collaboratively with Technical Research & Development to develop innovative and cost‑effective downstream processes for next‑generation AAV.
• Manage multiple project workflow to ensure timely delivery.
• Prepare written reports conforming to defined documentation practices, including electronic lab notebook.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Essential Requirements

• PhD in bioprocessing, biochemical engineering, gene therapy or a related field with 3+ years of relevant process development experience in the biopharmaceutical environment.
• Experience in people management.
• Knowledge of downstream purification processes including affinity and ion‑exchange chromatography with hands‑on experience with AKTA purification systems.
• Technical proficiency, creativity, and independent thought.
• Effective communication skills to convey scientific concepts to research scientists and cross‑functional collaborators.
• Strong organization and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced and matrix environment.

Desired Requirements

• Experience in AAV gene therapy.
• Experience with viral gene therapy.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range: Principal Scientist I – $108,500 to $201,500 per year; Principal Scientist II – $119,700 to $222,300 per year. Final salary offered is determined by relevant skills and experience, reviewed periodically, and may be adjusted based on company and market factors. Compensation includes a performance‑based cash incentive and potential annual equity awards.

US‑based eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including health, life, and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and other benefits. They also receive a generous time‑off package including vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.