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Upstream Process Development Scientist Jobs in Washington

US Tech Solutions

Associate Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

This position is focused on upstream cell culture and fermentation processes supporting scalability ... stage development to DSC as well as assisting in the production of various tox and development ...

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

As of Jul 14, 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 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.

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What job categories do people searching Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Upstream Process Development Scientist job openings:
Upstream Process Development Scientist jobs near you
Scientist, Viral Vector Process Development, Upstream

Scientist, Viral Vector Process Development, Upstream

AstraZeneca

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

AstraZeneca rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 74 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

AstraZeneca is looking for a highly motivated Scientist, Viral Vector Process Development (Upstream). The candidate will play a critical role within a high performing team that accelerates AstraZeneca's emerging Cell Therapy modalities portfolio. You will design, execute, and optimize upstream Lentiviral Vector (LVV) processes with a primary focus on suspension bioreactor platforms at clinical and commercial scales. You will contribute hands-on to experimental design, process characterization, and scale-up/tech transfer activities from research through IND enabling, partnering closely with Research, Analytical
Development, CMC, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Quality, and external CDMOs. This position is based in Gaithersburg, MD.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Upstream Process Development: Plan and perform experiments to develop and optimize LVV upstream processes for suspension cell culture (transient or stable producer cell systems), targeting improvements in titer, quality, robustness, and cost.
  • Bioreactor Operations & Scale Translation: Execute unit operations across seed, production, and harvest interfaces; support scale-up strategies from bench to pilot and clinical scales; develop and use scale-down models for characterization and comparability.
  • Experimental Design & Data Analysis: Design DOE studies, identify CPPs/CMAs, analyze data and propose control strategies; document results in protocols and reports; maintain fit for purpose knowledge records.
  • Tech Transfer & GMP Interface: Prepare technical transfer packages and support transfers to internal GMP sites and CDMOs; align process documentation with cGMP principles for late-stage readiness.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Analytical Development on assay readiness and in process testing; partner with Manufacturing, Supply, and Quality to ensure operational feasibility and compliance.
  • Operational Excellence: Apply Lean practices and digital tools for scheduling, data integrity, and reproducibility; track KPIs (titer, infectivity, impurity profiles, cycle time, right first time) and recommend improvements.

Qualifications:
  • Education: MS/BS in Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field.
  • Years of experiences in industry: MS with 1-4 years; or BS with 3-6 years.
  • Experience: Handson experience developing suspension-based LVV upstream processes; familiarity with clinical scale considerations, and technology transfer.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in suspension cell culture, transfection/infection strategies, media/feed optimization, single use rocking-platform and stirred-tank bioreactors, and upstream-harvest interfaces;
  • Communication & Teamwork: Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to work effectively in cross functional, matrixed teams; demonstrated problem solving and troubleshooting capabilities.

  • Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated success scaling suspension LVV processes to pilot/clinical scales and sustaining performance via monitoring and continuous improvement.
  • Experience linking upstream parameters to analytical outcomes (titer, infectivity/potency, residuals/impurities) to guide process decisions.
  • Contributions to regulatory filings (data tables, process descriptions) and participation in tech transfer to CDMOs or internal GMP sites.
  • Tools & Automation: Experience with single use systems, process automation/PAT, and digital lab systems (ELN/LIMS) preferred.
  • Experience implementing Lean/continuous improvement and robust documentation/knowledge management in PD labs

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $92,252.00 - $138,378.00. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives-an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans.
Date Posted
06-Jul-2026
Closing Date
23-Jul-2026
Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.

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