Scientist II, Physiology

This position is on-site in Seattle, WA.

Join Lumen Bioscience as a Scientist II, Process Development to lead the development, optimization, and qualification of scale-down models for upstream and downstream processes supporting complex biologics in an innovative early-stage manufacturing environment. In this role, you will apply process modeling DoE strategies to maximize product potency and productivity, design and execute complex experimental studies using sound statistical methodologies, and lead technology transfer efforts across Lumen's portfolio.

This position is a strong fit for someone who brings deep scientific expertise, thrives on independently driving complex technical initiatives, and excels in a highly cross-functional environment. You will collaborate closely with Manufacturing and R&D teams to ensure alignment and successful program execution, clearly communicate scientific strategy, risks, data interpretations, and recommendations to project teams, leadership, and internal and external partners. You will also author technical reports, protocols, and presentations, execute assigned milestones on time while upholding high scientific standards. You will also have the opportunity to supervise and mentor junior team members.

Lumen’s breakthrough biologics manufacturing and administration platform addresses critical challenges from patient accessibility to global climate change. The Process Development Scientist II will lead development, optimization, and qualification of scale-down models (SDM) for upstream and downstream processes supporting complex biologics. This role is central to advancing robust process understanding, enabling efficient technology transfer, and will have the opportunity to contribute to Lumen’s innovative platform manufacturing process.

If you are a resourceful, detail-oriented scientist with sound judgement, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering high-quality results in a fast-paced and evolving environment, we encourage you to apply.

Duties & Responsibilities:

This position requires working under the 21 CFR part 210/211 standard pharmaceutical cGXP quality system processes.

• Lead the development, optimization, troubleshooting, and qualification of scale-down models for upstream and downstream processes for complex biologics
• Design, execute, and analyze complex experimental studies using sound statistical and DoE methodologies
• Lead technology transfer efforts
• Timely execution of assigned milestones while maintaining high scientific standards
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Manufacturing and Research and Development teams to ensure alignment and successful program execution
• Clearly communicate scientific strategy, risks, data interpretations, and recommendations to project teams, leadership, and internal/external partners
• Maintain thorough and timely documentation in electronic laboratory notebooks and company systems
• Author technical reports, protocols, and presentations for internal and external audiences

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education and Experience:
  • PhD or equivalent experience in phycology, plant biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, chemistry, or related field
  • Minimum of five years’ experience with biochemistry, microbiology, or molecular biology
  • Demonstrated expertise with upstream or downstream process modeling for biologics
  • Experience with multi-factor Design-of-Experiments (DOE), data analysis, and troubleshooting skills
  • Experience culturing microorganisms at research, pilot, and commercial scale preferred
  • Hands-on experience or the desire to learn biochemical and immunoassays (ELISA, MSD, SDS-PAGE, western blot, etc.), spectroscopic or fluorescence-based techniques, or quantitative PCR protocols
• Skills and Attributes:
  • Excellent organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality results on time
  • Resourceful with proven ability to lead, manage, and leverage internal and external resources to plan and resolve issues
  • Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills to promote team success
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly
  • Demonstrated integrity, sound scientific judgement, and professional ethics
  • Ability to work both independently and in a highly collaborative team environment

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work on-site in Seattle, WA
• Ability to sit/stand for extended periods of time (2 or more hours)
• Occasionally lift or carry up to 23 kg
• Perform delicate manual procedures in the laboratory.

Benefits at Lumen Bioscience:

• Stock bonus
• Health, Dental, and Vision premiums fully covered by Lumen
• 401k match up to 4%
• Industry-leading PTO policy, paid refresh days, and paid year-end holiday office closure
• Monthly wellness program to support your health and well-being
• Free onsite parking or public transportation subsidies
• Comprehensive parental leave policies
• Life insurance, short & long-term disability, and access to employee assistance programs

At Lumen Bioscience, we foster a workplace built on collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. This role offers a significant opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge biotechnology and the advancement of global health solutions.

Join us to shape innovative solutions and drive operational excellence.