Lead Scientist, R&D (Upstream)

About the role

The R&D Lead Scientist, Upstream Processing (USP) is responsible for designing and leading experimental work programs focused on evaluating and implementing process analytical technologies (PAT) for various mammalian manufacturing upstream unit operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex USP programs, ensuring project success and managing team execution.
• Drive scientific innovation, process robustness, and performance optimization for PAT experiments.
• Oversee and support daily USP activities, including inoculum subcultures, cell culture operations, and alarm responses.
• Leverage domain expertise to solve complex problems and guide both high-level business strategies and technical decisions.
• Foster a high-performing team culture through clear communication, active coaching, and decisive leadership.
• Navigate demanding situations seamlessly and escalate critical issues to the appropriate Subject Matter Experts (SMEs).
• Uphold the highest standards of scientific integrity while ensuring all work creates maximum commercial value.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Biology with 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience with spectroscopic modeling, fermentation, or mammalian cell culture.
• Experience with process control of fed-batch, intensified fed-batch, and/or perfusion mammalian cell culture.
• Understanding of complex biochemical pathways pertaining to mammalian cell culture and protein production.
• Demonstrate scientific and technical leadership at a project level.

Qualifications

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• 401(k) matching plan.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Access to global benefits.

Benefits

• Agile career and dynamic working culture.
• Inclusive and ethical workplace.
• Competitive compensation programs that reward high performance.
• Global benefits listed here: https://www.lonza.com/careers/benefits.

Pay

Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.

Schedule

100% On-site.

Skills

• Scientific and technical leadership.
• Process analytical technologies (PAT) design and implementation.
• Cell culture operations management.
• Complex biochemical pathway understanding.
• Collaboration with scientists from other business units and partners.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching plan.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Global benefits listed here: https://www.lonza.com/careers/benefits.