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Upstream Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Legend Biotech USA, Inc.

Legend Biotech is seeking a Principal Scientist, Lentivirus Upstream Process Development as part of the Technical Development team based in Somerset, NJ.Role OverviewThe Principal Scientist ...

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How much do upstream scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream scientist in the United States is $43.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.17 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Upstream Scientists in bioprocess development, and how can they be addressed?

Upstream Scientists often encounter challenges such as optimizing cell culture conditions, scaling up processes from the laboratory to production levels, and ensuring consistency in yield and product quality. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, close attention to experimental design, and effective collaboration with downstream and analytical teams. Staying current with new bioprocessing technologies and maintaining clear documentation are also essential for addressing these issues and driving successful project outcomes.

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

To thrive as an Upstream Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, biochemistry, or chemical engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in cell culture or fermentation processes. Familiarity with bioreactor systems, process analytical technologies (PAT), and data analysis software is typically required, along with knowledge of GMP regulations. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient process development and optimization, leading to high-quality biologics production in a regulated environment.

What is an Upstream Scientist?

An Upstream Scientist is a professional who specializes in the early stages of biopharmaceutical production, focusing on the cultivation and optimization of biological materials such as cells or microorganisms. Their primary role involves developing and improving processes like cell culture, fermentation, and media design to maximize the yield and quality of desired products, such as proteins or vaccines. Upstream Scientists work closely with downstream teams to ensure smooth transition of materials for further processing, and they play a crucial role in scaling up laboratory processes for commercial manufacturing.

What is the difference between Upstream Scientist vs Downstream Scientist?

AspectUpstream ScientistDownstream Scientist
Primary FocusResearch and develop processes for oil and gas extraction or biopharmaceutical production at the initial stagesRefine, purify, and package products after initial production
Required SkillsProcess engineering, laboratory analysis, biochemistry, geologyPurification techniques, chromatography, formulation, quality control
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, exploration sites, production facilitiesManufacturing plants, labs, quality assurance settings
Industry UsageOil & gas, biotechnology, pharmaceuticalsPharmaceuticals, biotech, chemical manufacturing

Upstream Scientists focus on the initial stages of production, such as exploration and process development, while Downstream Scientists handle the refining, purification, and final product formulation. Both roles require specialized skills and are essential in the production pipeline, often working in related industries like biotech and pharmaceuticals.

More about Upstream Scientist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Upstream Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Upstream Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Upstream Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Upstream Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Upstream Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Upstream Scientist jobs are:
Upstream Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,889 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Upstream Scientist (Sunday-Thursday)

Eurofins Scientific

Malvern, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Eurofins rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 180 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

Company Description

Eurofins Scientific is an international life sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins laboratories work with the biggest companies in the world to ensure the products they supply are safe, their ingredients are authentic and labelling is accurate.

The Eurofins network of companies is the global leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetic product testing and in agroscience Contract Research Organisation services. It is one of the market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations. It also has a rapidly developing presence in highly specialised and molecular clinical diagnostic testing and in-vitro diagnostic products.

In over 30 years, Eurofins has grown from one laboratory in Nantes, France to 58,000 staff across a decentralised and entrepreneurial network of 900 laboratories in over 54 countries. Eurofins companies offer a portfolio of over 200,000 analytical methods to evaluate the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin, traceability and purity of biological substances and products.

In 2021, Eurofins generated total revenues of EUR 6.72 billion, and has been among the best performing stocks in Europe over the past 20 years.

Job Description
  • Perform Upstream process development utilizing the FlatBUG systems for large molecule based products
  • Perform duties in a protocol-driven work, such as cell culture, and running 5L bioreactors
  • Supporting lab work associated with development and scale-up projects within the API-Proteins area
  • Responsible for organizing records, capturing results into data sheets, and contributing to technical reports in a team environment as well as contributing individually to meet project timeline and objectives.
  • Assist with general lab upkeep and organization efforts, which includes decontamination and disposal of large-scale cell culture/bioreactor wastes
  • Conduct, analysis and reporting of data in accordance with requirements set forth by the department.
  • Record experimental data and accurate and highly organized laboratory notebooks.
Qualifications
  • Bachelors or Master's degree in biopharmaceutical, biotechnology or pharmaceutical discipline required
  • Broad knowledge in upstream process development and hands-on experience is desired.
  • Authorization to work in the United States indefinitely without restriction or sponsorship
Additional Information

Position is full-time, Sunday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm.  Candidates currently living within a commutable distance of Malvern, PA are encouraged to apply. 

  • Excellent full time benefits including comprehensive medical coverage, dental, and vision options
  • Life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays

Eurofins USA PSS Insourcing Solutions is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

What Eurofins employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Eurofins

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Scientific research and development services, biotechnology research and development and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Leacock, PA, US

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