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Contract Downstream Processing Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lonza

Scientist II, Downstream

Houston, TX

Scientist II, Downstream Location: This is an on-site position located in Pearland, TX. The purpose ... The ideal candidate will be responsible for leading new process development and improving existing ...

Merck & Co.

The candidate will be responsible for scientific/technical contributions and leadership of ... downstream bioconjugate processing. - Strong understanding of, or hands-on experience in, cGMP ...

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How much do contract downstream processing scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract downstream processing scientist in the United States is $87,842.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a downstream process scientist?

A downstream process scientist specializes in the purification and formulation of biopharmaceutical products after they are produced, focusing on processes such as chromatography, filtration, and centrifugation. They often work with bioprocessing equipment, optimize protocols, and ensure product quality and compliance with regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Contract Downstream Processing Scientist vs Contract Upstream Processing Scientist?

AspectContract Downstream Processing ScientistContract Upstream Processing Scientist
ResponsibilitiesFocuses on purification, formulation, and finishing of bioproductsHandles cell culture, fermentation, and initial product generation
Required SkillsProtein purification, chromatography, aseptic techniquesCell culture, bioreactor operation, media preparation
Work EnvironmentBiotech manufacturing, contract research organizationsBiotech labs, manufacturing facilities
Common CertificationsGMP, cGMP, laboratory safetyGMP, cGMP, laboratory safety

Contract Downstream Processing Scientists specialize in purification and finishing of bioproducts, while Contract Upstream Processing Scientists focus on cell culture and fermentation. Both roles require GMP knowledge and are found in biotech manufacturing settings, but they differ in their specific technical focus and stage of bioprocessing.

What jobs can you do as a scientist?

As a scientist, you can work in various fields such as research and development, quality control, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing. Roles may include laboratory scientist, research scientist, process development scientist, or quality assurance specialist, often requiring skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and industry-specific regulations.

Which scientist job makes the most money?

Among scientist roles, pharmaceutical and biotechnology research scientists, including senior scientists and principal investigators, tend to earn the highest salaries due to their specialized expertise and industry demand. Downstream processing scientists in biopharmaceuticals typically have competitive salaries, but executive or senior roles in R&D generally pay more. Advanced degrees, certifications, and experience can significantly impact earning potential in these fields.

What does a process development scientist do?

A process development scientist designs, optimizes, and scales up manufacturing processes for biopharmaceutical products, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance with regulatory standards. They use laboratory experiments, data analysis, and process modeling to improve production methods and troubleshoot issues during development. Strong knowledge of bioprocessing techniques, equipment, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) is essential in this role.
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Contract Downstream Processing Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Downstream Processing Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 6% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 45% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,842 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Scientist II, Downstream

Lonza

Houston, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Lonza rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 71 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

Scientist II, Downstream

Location: This is an on-site position located in Pearland, TX.

The purpose of this role is to work in a high performing, cross functional team with the goal of driving innovation in the development of scalable downstream processes related to the manufacture of therapeutic gene therapy products. The ideal candidate will be responsible for leading new process development and improving existing processes. The incumbent will independently design and coordinate the execution of experiments related to the purification of viral based gene therapy products, and be an excellent communicator.

What you will get:

A competitive compensation. In addition, below you will find a comprehensive summary of the benefits package we offer:

  • Performance-related bonus.

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance.

  • 401(k) matching plan.

  • Life insurance, as well as short-term and long-term disability insurance.

  • Employee assistance programs.

  • Paid time off (PTO).

Compensation for this role will be determined by the candidate's qualifications, skills, experience, and relevant knowledge.

What you will do:

  • Interacts with clients regarding process development scopes and tech transfer activities as well as data discussion and challenge resolutions.

  • Responsible for tech transfer to manufacturing following Lonza guidelines, provides ongoing supports as needed.

  • Designs and executes experiments, analyzes data. Authoring study protocols and reports. Maintains accurate & detailed records following Lonza's best documentation practices.

  • Contributes and supports scientific and engineering expertise toward the design and development of new downstream process ideas that support client product concepts.

  • Establish collaborative relationships and serve as SME to cross-functional groups (MSAT, MFG, QC, and PM).

  • Mentor and train junior colleagues.

What we are looking for:

  • PhD or MS in Life Sciences with focus on biology or bioengineering

  • Experience with development and optimization of viral or protein purification process including chromatography, filtration and formulation unit operations.

  • Experience with the technology transferring of viral or protein related downstream processes to cGMP manufacturing.

  • Experience or knowledge of analytical methods and in process controls commonly used in manufacturing processes.

  • Experience with late-stage process development for viral or protein related downstream process is highly desirable.

About Lonza:

At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone's ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that's the kind of work we want you to be part of.

Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you're ready to help turn our customers' breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board.

Ready to shape the future of life sciences? Apply now.

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