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Downstream Processing Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The successful candidate will drive scientific excellence in scaling automation capabilities from ... of LVV downstream processing, build operational efficiency by model-first and AI-enabled ...

Fermentation Scientist

Vacaville, CA ยท Hybrid

$100K - $130K/yr

Develop and improve downstream processing (DSP) approaches for microbial biomass and product ... science, or a related field. * Hands-on experience with submerged liquid fermentation and solid ...

Fermentation Scientist

Vacaville, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Develop and improve downstream processing (DSP) approaches for microbial biomass and product ... science, or a related field. * Hands-on experience with submerged liquid fermentation and solid ...

Showing results 41-60

Downstream Processing Scientist information

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$58.5K

$87.8K

$123.5K

How much do downstream processing scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 processing scientist?

A Downstream Processing Scientist is responsible for the purification and recovery of biological products, such as proteins, antibodies, or vaccines, after fermentation or cell culture. They develop and optimize processes like chromatography, filtration, and centrifugation to ensure product quality and yield. Their role also includes scaling up purification methods, troubleshooting process challenges, and working within regulatory guidelines. They often collaborate with upstream processing teams, analytical scientists, and quality control departments to ensure smooth production.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a downstream processing scientist?

A Downstream Processing Scientist typically focuses on developing, optimizing, and scaling up purification processes for biologics or pharmaceuticals. Daily tasks include designing and executing experiments, analyzing product purity, maintaining detailed documentation, and troubleshooting process or equipment issues. Collaboration with upstream processing teams, quality assurance, and manufacturing staff is common to ensure seamless product handoff and process improvements. This hands-on, problem-solving work often involves both laboratory-based activities and data analysis, providing a dynamic and engaging work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a downstream processing scientist?

To thrive as a Downstream Processing Scientist, you need a strong background in biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field, along with hands-on experience in purification techniques such as chromatography and filtration. Familiarity with laboratory automation systems, analytical instrumentation (e.g., HPLC, SDS-PAGE), and regulatory standards like GMP is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear scientific communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure efficient purification of bioproducts, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

What does a downstream processing scientist do?

A downstream processing scientist is responsible for purifying and isolating biological products, such as proteins or vaccines, after they are produced in the upstream process. They develop and optimize techniques like filtration, chromatography, and centrifugation to ensure product quality and safety, often working in a laboratory or manufacturing environment and using specialized equipment. Strong knowledge of bioprocessing, regulatory standards, and analytical methods is essential for this role.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Downstream Processing Scientist jobs?

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What states have the most Downstream Processing Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Downstream Processing Scientist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Downstream Processing Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,842 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Senior Scientist, Process Development

BioNTech SE

Gaithersburg, MD โ€ข On-site

$113K - $181K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Gaithersburg, US | full time | Job ID: 11410
About the Role:
As a Senior Scientist I in Process Development at BioNTech, you will play a key role in advancing our antibody pipeline, which is central to our therapeutic strategy. This position offers the opportunity to actively contribute technical leadership to downstream processing development while supporting CMC strategy for regulatory submissions. You will be part of a dynamic, lab-based team that thrives on collaboration and innovation to drive impactful results.
In this role, you will leverage your expertise in downstream processing to develop scalable purification processes, optimize manufacturing workflows, and ensure compliance with global regulatory standards. Your ability to distill complex data into actionable insights will be critical in shaping BioNTech's success in delivering novel therapies to patients worldwide.
Your Contribution:
Develop and qualify scale-down models for downstream purification processes to support monoclonal antibody manufacturing
Execute studies and FMEA assessments to establish critical process parameters and proven acceptable ranges for process characterization
Lead development, optimization, and characterization of downstream processes, including scale-up, virus/impurity clearance, and resin/membrane lifetime
Conduct downstream process unit operations such as depth filtration, chromatography, viral inactivation, viral filtration, tangential flow filtration, and formulation
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design experiments, analyze results, support technology transfers, and meet project timelines
Contribute to CMC documentation by drafting process descriptions, characterization reports, QbD risk assessments, and other technical reports
Drive the creation of best practices and workflows for process development in a fast-paced environment
A Good Match:
PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry or related discipline with 6 plus years of relevant experience (including post-doctoral training), or MS with 8 plus years of industry experience
6 years' experience in global pharma PD or MS&T for monoclonal antibodies or related biologics
Expertise in downstream process development including scale-up and technology transfer
Proven ability to design and execute process characterization studies using scale-down models that inform PPQ strategy
Strong understanding of biologics CMC processes including PPQ/BLA readiness; experience with antibody or ADC development preferred
Demonstrated technical leadership within cross-functional teams and programs
Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required by program needs
Your benefits and remuneration:
Expected Pay Range: $113,600/year to $181,600/year + benefits, annual bonus & equity (bonus and equity is variable and dependent on company and individual performance). Compensation for the role will depend on several factors, including responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.
BioNTech US is committed to employee wellbeing and offers best-in-class benefits & HR programs to support an inclusive & diverse workforce. Salaried/Position-Targeted Hourly Employees working 30+ hours per week are eligible for our comprehensive benefits package. Benefits include but are not limited to:
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Life, AD&D, Critical Illness Insurance
  • Pre-tax HSA & FSA, DCRA Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance & Concierge Program (EAP) available 24/7
  • Parental and Childbirth Leave & Family Planning Assistance
  • Sitterstream: Virtual Tutoring & Childcare Membership
  • Paid Time Off: Vacation, Sick, Bereavement, Holidays (including Floating) & Year-End U.S. Shutdown.
  • 401(K) Plan with Company Match
  • Tuition Reimbursement & Student Loan Assistance Programs
  • Wellbeing Incentive Platforms & Incentives
  • Professional Development Programs
  • Commuting Allowance and subsidized parking
  • Discounted Home, Auto & Pet Insurance

...and more! More details to be shared.
Located in the BioHealth Capital Region near Washington DC and ranked among the top biopharma hubs in the country, Gaithersburg, Maryland offers a unique and diverse cluster across industry, government, and academia for top talent and scientific innovation. As a pivotal player within the life sciences community, Gaithersburg is distinguished by its robust infrastructure and strategic location near the nation's capital. The city's strategic significance is amplified by its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities that cater to the rigorous demands of the life sciences industry; Gaithersburg's manufacturing sector is defined by advanced technologies and complies with the most stringent regulatory standards, ensuring the production of high-quality pharmaceuticals, biologics, and medical devices. In the coming years, Gaithersburg will continue to be a vital contributor to the future of medical science and technology.
Apply now - We look forward to your application!
Apply for our Gaithersburg, US location and simply send us your documents using our online form.
By submitting your application, you acknowledge that a background check will be conducted as part of the recruitment process in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. If you are considered for the position, BioNTech will conduct the background check through our service provider 'HireRight'. You will be informed accordingly by your BioNTech-Recruiter.
Inspired? Become part of #TeamBioNTech.
BioNTech, the story
At BioNTech, we are more than just a biotechnology company - we are a community of innovators, scientists, and leaders dedicated to revolutionizing medicine by translating cutting-edge science into survival. Your contributions here have the potential to improve the health of people worldwide, especially by addressing diseases with high medical needs like cancer and various infectious diseases.
Experience a dynamic workplace that embraces diversity in all its forms. We foster innovation, encourage creativity, and develop business strategies driven by our shared passion for advancing medicine.
Working at BioNTech means striving to achieve medical breakthroughs while growing your career in a meaningful way. Apply today and become part of a mission that has the potential to change lives around the world.
BioNTech does not tolerate discrimination, favoritism or harassment based on gender, political views, religion or belief, nationality, ethnic or social origin, age, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, physical appearance, health status or any other physical or personal characteristics. BioNTech is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. The main thing is that you suit us, and we suit you!
BioNTech - As unique as you
www.biontech.com