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Upstream Process Development Scientist Jobs in California

Meissner

R&D Bioprocessing Scientist I

Camarillo, CA · On-site

This may include upstream experiments to support cell culture and bioreactor process development ... Mentor junior scientists and research associates as needed. * Ensure compliance with all safety ...

Meissner Filtration Products

This may include upstream experiments to support cell culture and bioreactor process development ... Mentor junior scientists and research associates as needed. * Ensure compliance with all safety ...

ATUM

Associate Scientist, Bioproduction

Newark, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Associate Scientist, Bioproduction Newark, CA | Full-Time ATUM is a leading bioengineering solution ... Proven track record in upstream process development and experience with larger-scale glass or ...

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All JobsUpstream Process Development Scientist JobsUpstream Process Development Scientist Jobs in California

Upstream Process Development Scientist information

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How much do upstream process development scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream process development scientist in California is $38.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.98 and $45.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Upstream Process Development Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Upstream Process Development Scientist, you need a strong background in bioprocess engineering, cell culture, and molecular biology, typically supported by a degree in life sciences or biochemical engineering. Familiarity with bioreactor systems, analytical instrumentation, and data analysis software, as well as experience with cGMP and regulatory guidelines, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help drive innovation and collaboration in the lab. These skills are crucial for optimizing cell culture processes, ensuring product quality, and meeting timelines in biopharmaceutical development.

What are some typical challenges faced by Upstream Process Development Scientists, and how are they addressed in the workplace?

Upstream Process Development Scientists often encounter challenges such as optimizing cell culture conditions for maximum yield, scaling up processes from bench to pilot or production scale, and troubleshooting variability in biological systems. These challenges are typically addressed through rigorous experimental design, close collaboration with cross-functional teams like analytical development and quality assurance, and leveraging data-driven approaches to problem-solving. Regular team meetings and access to advanced instrumentation also provide support, ensuring that scientists can quickly adapt to evolving project needs and industry standards.

What does an Upstream Process Development Scientist do?

An Upstream Process Development Scientist is responsible for designing, optimizing, and scaling up processes for the production of biological products such as proteins, vaccines, or antibodies. They primarily focus on cell culture, fermentation, and bioreactor operations to maximize yield and product quality. These scientists work closely with research and manufacturing teams to develop efficient and reproducible processes that can be transferred to large-scale production. Their work is essential in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries for the development of new therapeutics.

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

AspectUpstream Process Development ScientistDownstream Process Development Scientist
Focus AreaBioreactor cultivation, cell culture optimization, media developmentPurification, filtration, chromatography, product recovery
Skills & CertificationsCell biology, bioprocessing, GMP regulationsProtein chemistry, purification techniques, GMP compliance
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, bioreactors, pilot plantsLaboratories, purification facilities, pilot plants
Industry UsageBiopharmaceuticals, biotech companies, contract manufacturingBiopharmaceuticals, biotech companies, contract manufacturing

Both roles are essential in bioprocessing, with upstream scientists focusing on cell growth and media optimization, while downstream scientists handle product purification. They often collaborate closely within biopharmaceutical manufacturing to ensure efficient production and high-quality biologics.

What are popular job titles related to Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs in California? For Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs in California are:
Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs near you

Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development

Epicrispr Biotechnologies

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$118K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Who Are We?
Our company is based on the science of our founder, Stanley Qi, one of the original CRISPR co-inventors who then furthered the technology so that DNA does not need to be cut to accomplish gene regulation. Instead, we regulate the epigenome to suppress and activate multiple genes simultaneously. We are further evolving the platform and leveraging its strengths to address unmet medical needs.
We are looking for exceptional team members who want an active role in building a rapidly growing biotech.
Title: Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development
Location: South San Francisco, CA
Opportunity:
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Associate Scientist to join the Downstream Process Development team focused on adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy therapeutics. This role will support the development, optimization, and scale-up of purification processes for AAV vectors from early research through clinical manufacturing.
Responsibilities:
  • Design, execute, and analyze downstream purification experiments for AAV vectors for process steps including clarification, sterile filtration, tangential flow filtration (TFF), chromatography (affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion, mixed mode), and ultracentrifugation.
  • Perform small-scale studies for development of downstream AAV processes, process optimization, process characterization, and assessment of process robustness.
  • Support process development activities from bench scale through pilot scale and tech transfer to GMP manufacturing.
  • Present data and project updates in team meetings and cross-functional forums.
  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation in electronic lab notebooks and technical reports.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with upstream process development and analytical development and other functions.
  • Stay current with advancements in AAV purification technologies, regulatory expectations, and industry best practices.

Qualifications:
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform this job successfully.
  • B.S. degree in Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related discipline with 5+ years of relevant industry experience (or M.S. with 3+ years or Ph.D.)
  • Required experience with AKTA purification
  • Strong working knowledge of chromatography and filtration technologies
  • Hands-on experience with viral vector purification, preferably AAV
  • Experience with analytical techniques for AAV characterization such as Refeyn, qPCR/dPCR/ddPCR, ELISA, alkaline gel, CE-SDS, SEC-HPLC, AUC and other similar analytical assays
  • Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DOE) and JMP are a plus
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $118,000 to $124,000 USD annually. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including, without limitation, individual education, experience, tenure, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data, including potential adjustments for geographic location.
Epicrispr Biotechnologies is an early-stage biotechnology company developing a novel technology platform that can provide safe and persistent control of targeted gene regulation. Our proprietary platform represents an entirely new class of therapeutics that can be leveraged to treat severe disease across numerous therapeutic areas, including complex diseases impacted by multiple genes.
Epicrispr Biotechnologies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

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