ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist Jobs in Washington, DC

GAP Solutions, Inc

Biologist (50849)

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$92K - $102K/yr

Develop downstream (purification) processes, under the supervision of a project lead scientist, for ... Coordinate with project management to ensure development milestones and study deliverables are met ...

GAP SOLUTIONS INC

Biologist (50849)

Gaithersburg, MD

Develop downstream (purification) processes, under the supervision of a project lead scientist, for ... Coordinate with project management to ensure development milestones and study deliverables are met ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDownstream Process Development Scientist JobsFull Time Downstream Process Development Scientist JobsFull Time Downstream Process Development Scientist Jobs in Washington, DC

Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist information

See Washington, DC salary details

$23

$43

$69

How much do full time downstream process development scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time downstream process development scientist in Washington, DC is $43.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.12 and $52.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a full time downstream process development scientist do?

A Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist is responsible for designing, optimizing, and scaling up processes that purify biological products such as proteins, antibodies, or vaccines after they are produced in cells or microbes. This role involves developing and improving techniques like filtration, chromatography, and centrifugation to ensure high purity and yield of the final product. The scientist also conducts experiments, analyzes data, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to transfer processes from the lab to manufacturing. Their work is critical for producing safe and effective biopharmaceuticals on a large scale.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time downstream process development scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist, you need a strong background in biochemical engineering, protein purification, and analytical techniques, typically supported by a degree in biochemistry, biotechnology, or a related field. Proficiency with chromatography systems (e.g., HPLC, FPLC), filtration technologies, and knowledge of regulatory and quality systems like GMP is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot process challenges. These skills are crucial for developing robust purification processes that ensure product quality, regulatory compliance, and efficient production in biopharmaceutical environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by a full time downstream process development scientist, and how can they be addressed?

Downstream Process Development Scientists often encounter challenges such as optimizing protein purification processes to achieve high yield and purity, troubleshooting unexpected impurities, and scaling up processes from laboratory to manufacturing scale. These tasks require strong problem-solving skills, meticulous attention to detail, and effective collaboration with upstream teams, analytical scientists, and manufacturing staff. Addressing these challenges involves staying current with new purification technologies, maintaining robust documentation, and participating in cross-functional meetings to ensure seamless process integration and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist vs Downstream Process Engineer?

AspectFull Time Downstream Process Development Scientist
Primary FocusDesigning, optimizing, and developing downstream purification processes for biopharmaceuticals
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related field; experience in process development
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D settings, collaborative teams in biotech or pharma companies
Typical ResponsibilitiesProcess scale-up, method validation, troubleshooting, documentation

While both roles involve downstream bioprocessing, the Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist focuses on process development and optimization, whereas the Downstream Process Engineer typically handles process implementation and manufacturing support. The scientist role emphasizes research and development, while the engineer role is more operational. Candidates often hold similar degrees and certifications, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

How much does a full time downstream process development scientist make?

In California, a full-time downstream process development scientist typically earns between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the specific employer. Salaries may also include benefits such as health insurance and bonuses, with higher compensation often associated with advanced skills in bioprocessing and laboratory techniques.

What is a full time downstream process development scientist?

A full-time downstream process development scientist specializes in designing, optimizing, and scaling the purification processes used in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, such as chromatography and filtration. They work to improve product yield, purity, and efficiency, often using laboratory techniques and process modeling tools, typically within a regulated environment requiring compliance with industry standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Downstream Process Development Scientist jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Downstream Process Development Scientist jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist jobs in Washington, DC?

For Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist jobs in Washington, DC are:

Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Downstream Process Development Scientist job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,083 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Senior Scientist, Process Development

BioNTech SE

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$113K - $181K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 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.

Apply