Sr./Associate Scientist, Cellular Process Development

About bluebird bio

At bluebird every role has meaning, every team member is respected, and every day is a chance to fly higher. When you join bluebird bio, you're not just landing a new role, you become part of a company that's pursuing curative gene therapies to give patients and their families more bluebird days. We are doers, thinkers and collaborators who embrace and live by our values:

• Persist for Purpose
• Be Compassionate
• Stay humble and curious
• Keep it real
• Celebrate (sm)all wins

Our innovation is rooted in the diversity of our teams and results are achieved through cooperation and the integration of multiple viewpoints. This is personal and we approach every challenge with radical care.

SUMMARY

An Sr./Associate Scientist on the Cellular Process Development team will work to advance our hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell-based drug product manufacturing processes and expand understanding of our gene therapy products.  This role will support evaluation of new technologies and systems as well as execution of biological studies for process characterization and optimization.  This Associate Scientist will be responsible for execution of lab experiments, supporting data analysis and presentation of experimental results.  This is a full-time, hybrid position (a minimum of 3 days a week is required onsite) in our Hood Park, Boston, Massachusetts office. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform experiments involving the isolation, transduction, expansion, and cryopreservation of gene- modified cells for treatment of severe genetic diseases
• Execute complex technical work related to stem cell biology, including cell isolation, viral gene transfer, cell culture, PCR, flow cytometry, and other immunological assays
• Work with all aspects of mammalian cell culture, including media and buffer preparation, culture initiation, propagation, and cryopreservation of primary human cells
• Complete general laboratory tasks including equipment maintenance and inventory management
• Maintain accurate and reliable record keeping including database management, batch records, notebooks, and all other pertinent documentation
• Execute hands-on lab work with a flexible schedule based on experimental work
• Drive a culture of quality through documentation, processes and systems

QUALIFICATIONS

• Have a BS or MS in Bioengineering, Biology, Chemical Engineering or Biochemistry, with experience in cellular process development; 3+ years with a BS or 1+ years with a MS
• Experience in aseptic cell culture and general laboratory techniques
• Experience working with primary human cells and human blood products (peripheral blood, bone marrow) is preferred
• Knowledge of cell biology and biological assays such as flow cytometry, qPCR and cell-based assays
• Experience in using a laboratory notebook and familiarity with good documentation practices (GDP)
• Demonstrated ability to work on diverse projects simultaneously, requiring detailed analysis, creative/practical problem solving, time management, and sound judgment
• Ability to self-motivate while operating effectively in a team-oriented and collaborative environment

bluebird is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment.  All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other applicable legally protected characteristics.