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Upstream Process Development Scientist Jobs in Washington

CAMRIS

Senior MSAT mRNA/DNA Scientist

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$109K - $132K/yr

Design and execute process development studies to support Upstream (culture through harvest ... A PhD in a science field (preferably chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, or engineering) and 8 ...

CAMRIS

MSAT mRNA/DNA Scientist

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$92K - $124K/yr

Design and execute process development studies to support Upstream (culture through harvest ... A PhD in a science field (preferably chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, or engineering) and 6 ...

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All JobsUpstream Process Development Scientist JobsUpstream Process Development Scientist Jobs in Washington

Upstream Process Development Scientist information

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

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream process development scientist in Washington 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 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 is an upstream scientist?

An upstream process development scientist is responsible for designing and optimizing the early stages of biopharmaceutical production, such as cell culture and fermentation processes. They work with bioreactors, develop protocols, and use tools like chromatography and spectrometry to ensure efficient production of biological products. Strong knowledge of bioprocessing, cell biology, and laboratory techniques is essential for this role.

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.

How much do fermentation scientists make?

Fermentation scientists, including Upstream Process Development Scientists, typically earn between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in bioprocessing and laboratory techniques can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000.

What is the highest paid type of scientist?

Among scientists, petroleum engineers and data scientists tend to have the highest average salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Upstream process development scientists in biotech or pharmaceutical industries typically earn competitive salaries but generally less than specialized fields like petroleum or data science, depending on experience and location.

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 in the development phase.
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Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Process Development Scientist job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 58% Full Time, and 39% Part Time. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,083 per year, or $43.8 per hour.
Research Associate, Process Development

Research Associate, Process Development

Precigen, Inc

Germantown, MD • On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Precigen is a dedicated discovery and clinical stage biopharmaceutical company advancing the next generation of gene and cell therapies using precision technology to target the most urgent and intractable diseases in our core therapeutic areas of immuno-oncology, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.

Precigen has developed novel manufacturing processes to deliver UltraCAR-T® and AdenoVerse™ immunotherapies to patients. We have multiple products being evaluated in the clinic using our innovative manufacturing approach to cell and gene therapies.

Research Associate– Process Development Upstream requires a professional who thrives in a dynamic team environment, brings meticulous attention to detail in the quality of their work and is proactive in implementing improvements. This position will be supporting all Gene Therapy CMC aspects of early stage to commercialization of adenovector products.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • BS in chemical/biochemical engineering, Biotechnology or related discipline with 2-3 years of relevant industrial experience in upstream process development; or M.S. degree in a similar field with 1-2 years of relevant experience in upstream process development.
  • Strong computer skills with Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly learn new applications.
  • Experience in summarizing and presenting data and authoring technical reports.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform hands-on work in upstream process development to execute cell culture using shake flasks and bench scale bioreactors
  • Maintain and coordinate raw material and equipment inventories; ensure equipment is operated and maintained in a safe, compliant manner.
  • Keep accurate, detailed laboratory records; comply with all required training and maintain a strong focus on laboratory/facility safety for self and team members.
  • Author process development protocols, procedures, and development reports.
  • Communicate and present scientific findings in process development groups.

Required Experience and Skills

  • Sound aseptic cell culture technique, including working in Biosafety Cabinets (BSC).
  • Proven written and verbal communication skills
  • Critical thinking with ability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced team environment
  • Self-organizer, meticulous hands-on habits, keen attention to detail.
  • Hands on laboratory skills to conduct bench work to execute, optimize, and troubleshoot cell culture processes (e.g., shake flasks, bench scale and pilot scale bioreactors).
  • Experience with data analysis, interpret datasets, and support process understanding and optimization.
  • Ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines and quality standards throughout all stages of process development and manufacturing.
  • Maintain a high degree of ethical standard and trustworthiness.

Working conditions and physical requirements:

  • May need to work with infectious agents and hazardous chemicals.
  • Able to stand up to 4 hours at a time.