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Upstream Process Development Jobs in Lowell, MA (NOW HIRING)

Broad experience across the full process development cycle, including synthetic route scouting, salt selection, upstream and downstream process optimization, and evaluation of process alternatives ...

Direct the upstream (cell culture, bioreactor process) and downstream (purification, concentration) development activities for discovery research viral vector manufacturing. Drive the optimization ...

Process Technology Engineer

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Join Sartorius as a Process Technology Engineer, supporting upstream and downstream bioprocess ... Contribute to RFQ strategy, costing, and proposal development * Execute basic design scope (PFD, P ...

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Upstream Process Development information

See Lowell, MA salary details

$18

$26

$37

How much do upstream process development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream process development in Lowell, MA is $26.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.37 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in upstream process development?

Success in Upstream Process Development requires a strong background in biology, biochemistry, or chemical engineering, often with an advanced degree and experience in cell culture or fermentation techniques. Familiarity with bioreactors, process control systems, and analytical instrumentation, as well as knowledge of cGMP regulations, is essential. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for optimizing processes and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure efficient development of scalable production processes, maintaining product quality and regulatory compliance.

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

AspectUpstream Process DevelopmentDownstream Process Development
FocusDevelopment of cell culture, fermentation, and bioreactor processesPurification, filtration, and formulation of bioproducts
Skills & CredentialsBioprocess engineering, molecular biology, biochemistryBioprocessing, chromatography, analytical chemistry
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, bioreactors, pilot plantsPurification facilities, labs, quality control
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceutical manufacturingBiotech, pharmaceutical manufacturing

Upstream Process Development focuses on creating and optimizing cell culture and fermentation processes to produce bioproducts. In contrast, Downstream Process Development involves purifying and finishing these products. Both roles are essential in biopharmaceutical manufacturing and require similar scientific backgrounds, but they specialize in different stages of bioprocessing.

What are some common challenges faced in upstream process development and how do teams typically address them?

One of the main challenges in upstream process development is optimizing cell culture conditions to consistently achieve high yields and product quality. Teams often encounter variability in biological systems and must troubleshoot issues such as contamination, scale-up inconsistencies, or nutrient limitations. Collaboration with analytical, downstream, and quality teams is essential to identify root causes and implement solutions. Regular data review meetings, cross-functional problem-solving, and continuous process improvement are standard practices to ensure robust upstream processes.

What are popular job titles related to Upstream Process Development jobs in Lowell, MA?

For Upstream Process Development jobs in Lowell, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Lowell, MA are hiring for Upstream Process Development jobs?

Cities near Lowell, MA with the most Upstream Process Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Upstream Process Development job openings in Lowell, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $54,696 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Associate Formulation Development Scientist

Phosphorex LLC

Hopkinton, MA

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description

The Associate Scientist is a specialist in the formulation and characterization of particulate based drug delivery systems including lipid and polymeric nanoparticles.  The Associate Scientist participates in the development and optimization of formulations to enable cell and tissue targeting contributing to the development of novel therapeutics.  They perform hands-on experiments in a laboratory setting, leading the execution of upstream (buffer prep, emulsification, microfluidics) and downstream (buffer exchange, concentration, etc.) formulation development activities.  The Associate Scientist is a team player who has laboratory and technical experience with a high attention to detail and desire to work in a fast-paced environment and contribute to a result orientated team.  

Role and Responsibilities

  • Assist in development and optimization of particulate based drug delivery systems to enable delivery of nucleic acids, peptides and small molecules for cell and tissue targeting by:   
  • Preparing polymeric and lipid-based microsphere and nanoparticle formulations via microfluidics, emulsification, etc.  
  • Purification and downstream processing of formulations via dialysis, centrifugation and tangential flow filtration  
  • Characterization of formulations including particle size analysis, zeta potential, drug content, encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release 
  • Evaluating short term stability of frozen and lyophilized formulations to support proof of concept animal studies. 
  • Collaborate with project team(s) to define and execute project plans to facilitate the development and optimization of formulations and processes to support feasibility and pre-clinical studies. 
  • Work collaboratively across multiple departments (Operations, Analytical Services, Process Development) to facilitate project teams' ability to successfully meet project objectives in a timely and organized fashion. 
  • Prepare and review documents including experimental methods, batch records, SOPs, and reports. 
  • Maintain detailed laboratory notebook. 
  • Adhere to Phosphorex's Environmental Health and Safety practices and SOPs to maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment free of safety hazards.  

Requirements

Qualifications and Education Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry, pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, engineering, or other relevant discipline with 0-2 years relevant experience  
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities 
  • Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. 
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with scientists and engineers working in other disciplines. 
  • Ability to work independently as well as with an interdisciplinary team in a highly collaborative environment. 
  • Demonstrated ability to contribute to multiple projects in parallel. 
  • Well versed with Microsoft Office applications. 

Preferred Skills

  • Prior experience with microfluidic fabrication of Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs) and/or characterization of LNPs. 
  • Prior experience with biodegradable polymeric systems and development of micro-and nano-particle formulations.  
  • Experience in CDMO environment. Â