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Merck Downstream Process Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lundbeck

Downstream Development Associate II

Bothell, WA · On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Summary: Performs downstream process development experiments and supporting activities, which enable both early and late-stage manufacturing process design for therapeutic monoclonal antibody ...

Legend Biotech USA, Inc.

Role OverviewThe Principal Scientist, Lentivirus Downstream Process Development, will be a key technical leader responsible for designing, optimizing, and scaling purification processes for ...

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How much do merck downstream process development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for merck downstream process development in the United States is $33.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.64 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Downstream Process Development at Merck, and why are they important?

To thrive in Merck Downstream Process Development, you need a solid background in biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field, typically with a bachelor's or advanced degree and relevant laboratory experience. Expertise in chromatography, filtration systems, and data analysis software, as well as familiarity with GMP regulations, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set outstanding professionals apart. These competencies are crucial for developing efficient, scalable purification processes that ensure product quality and compliance in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

What are some typical challenges faced in Merck Downstream Process Development, and how can new team members prepare for them?

In Merck Downstream Process Development, common challenges include optimizing purification processes to maximize yield and product quality while maintaining scalability and regulatory compliance. New team members may encounter complex troubleshooting when scaling lab protocols to pilot or commercial production. Collaboration with upstream teams, analytical scientists, and quality assurance is crucial for success. To prepare, candidates should familiarize themselves with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), chromatography techniques, and effective cross-functional communication strategies.

What is Downstream Process Development at Merck?

Downstream Process Development at Merck refers to the set of activities focused on purifying and refining biological products, such as proteins or vaccines, after they have been produced during upstream processes. This involves steps like filtration, chromatography, and formulation to ensure the final product is safe, effective, and meets regulatory standards. Scientists and engineers in this area work to optimize these processes for high yield, purity, and scalability. At Merck, this work is critical for bringing biopharmaceutical products from the laboratory to commercial manufacturing.

What is the difference between Merck Downstream Process Development vs Merck Upstream Process Development?

AspectMerck Downstream Process DevelopmentMerck Upstream Process Development
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratory and manufacturing settings focused on purification and polishing of bioproductsLaboratory and manufacturing settings focused on cell culture and bioreactor operations
Industry UsageUsed in biopharmaceutical manufacturing to refine and purify productsUsed in biopharmaceutical manufacturing to produce and optimize cell cultures

Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments but focus on different stages of bioprocessing. Downstream process development centers on purification, while upstream focuses on cell growth and bioreactor management. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

Infographic showing various Merck Downstream Process Development job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,060 per year, or $33.7 per hour.
Principal Scientist, Downstream Process Development (Contract) - AW

Principal Scientist, Downstream Process Development (Contract) - AW

Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc.

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$80 - $90/hr

Contractor

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc., wholly owned subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company, is a mission-driven clinical-stage company that aims to establish gene therapy as a new standard of care for highly prevalent ocular diseases with the aspiration of developing functional cures to restore vision and prevent blindness. Leveraging the research capabilities of its proprietary intravitreal (IVT) platform, Adverum is developing durable, single-administration therapies designed to be delivered in physicians' offices to eliminate the need for frequent ocular injections to treat these diseases. By overcoming the challenges associated with current treatment paradigms for these debilitating ocular diseases, Adverum aspires to transform the standard of care, preserve vision, and create a profound societal impact around the globe.

Note to Recruiters and Agencies
All recruiter and agency inquiries must go through Adverum's internal Talent Acquisition team.  Unsolicited resumes sent to Adverum will be considered Adverum's property.   Adverum's Talent Acquisition team must expressly engage agencies for any requisition.  Direct contact with hiring managers by agencies will not be tolerated and may affect your ability to work with Adverum in the future.

Adverum is looking for a Principal Scientist, Downstream Process Development to join the Process Development team at our Redwood City, CA office. The individual will be part of the team responsible for developing and optimizing the downstream process development activities for adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy programs. The successful candidate will participate in late-stage activities including design and optimization of the process as needed using historical batch data and manufacturing needs; process characterization; and tech-transfer of downstream processes to support clinical and commercial manufacturing. This role requires a deep understanding of chromatography, filtration, and gene therapy-specific challenges in AAV vector production, as well as experience in transitioning processes to GMP-compliant manufacturing. This position is onsite 5 days a week. 

What You'll Do:
  • Support latestage AAV downstream process development and optimization to ensure scalability, robustness, reproducibility, and regulatory compliance.
  • Lead and execute purification development, including chromatography (AFF, IEX) and filtration (depth, NFF, TFF).
  • Individually and partner with other SMEs to author protocols and reports, and execute on process characterization and validation studies (FMEA, scaledown models, DOE/OFAT, PPQ, hold studies).
  • Compile and analyze process and analytical data in Excel, JMP, or similar software, to identify trends, drive optimization, and lead and support investigations / RCA.
  • Present study findings, issues, and trends to PD and cross-functional CMC teams.
  • Support downstream material generation team as needed to maintain company timelines.
  • Downstream SME to support external manufacturing operations including technical meetings, BPR and related records review, execution, and troubleshooting.
  • Collaborate crossfunctionally (AD, USP, QC, RA) to ensure seamless transition from development to commercial.
  • Provide line leadership if needed.
  • Author/review technical documentation (development reports, SOPs, CMC sections for regulatory filings, Process Monitoring and Control Strategies).
  • Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies in gene therapy manufacturing to maintain best-in-class process development practices.
About You:
  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, or related field with 6+ years of relevant experience in downstream process development; or M.S. with 8+ years of experience.
  • Proven experience in AAV or other viral vector production, preferably in late-stage development for clinical/commercial scale manufacturing.
  • Strong expertise and in-depth knowledge in functioning and troubleshooting of purification process development/manufacturing equipment such as chromatography and filtration systems.
  • Experience with scalable, AKTA, depth filtration, and TFF systems.
  • Knowledge of GMP requirements and regulatory guidelines for gene therapy products.
  • Prefer to have knowledge of DOE principles, process characterization, and BLA enabling activities.
  • Background in authoring sections of regulatory submissions, including IND, or BLA filings.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize complex bioprocesses.
  • Strong communication and leadership skills to manage cross-functional projects and mentor team members.
$80 - $90 an hour

Adverum is a clinical-stage gene therapy company targeting unmet medical needs in ophthalmology and rare diseases. Adverum develops gene therapy product candidates designed to provide durable efficacy by inducing sustained expression of a therapeutic protein. Adverum's core capabilities include clinical development, novel vector discovery and in-house manufacturing expertise, specifically in scalable process development, assay development, and current Good Manufacturing Practices quality control.

At Adverum, Inclusion and Diversity are at our core. We believe in the power of being your authentic self.  We strive to create the space which allows for everyone in our Adverum Community to not only feel safe but encouraged to speak, learn from each other, grow in their professions and be the very best versions of themselves no matter what their age, ethnic background, gender, origin, religion or sexual orientation

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