Research Associate II, Early Process Development

Why Sarepta?

Sarepta is at the forefront of genetic medicine, holding a leadership position in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (Duchenne) and building a robust portfolio across muscle, central nervous system, and cardiac diseases. In 2023, we launched our fourth therapy and the first-ever gene therapy to treat Duchenne. We seek individuals who see unlimited potential in themselves and are motivated by an unwavering commitment to patients.

What Sarepta Offers

Sarepta supports its community by fostering a culture where employees bring their whole selves to work. We offer benefits and work-life resources to support:

• Physical and Emotional Wellness
• Financial Wellness
• Support for Caregivers

For a full list of our comprehensive benefits, visit our website.

About the Role

The Research Associate (RA) I/II, Early Stage Process Development, supports Cell Line and Upstream Process Development in executing experiments to develop and optimize upstream processes for producing siRNA and AAV vectors. This role leverages expertise in biochemistry, cell biology, and engineering to generate reliable, reproducible data with thorough documentation, supporting early research, pre-clinical manufacturing, and scale-up operations.

The RA I/II collaborates closely with Downstream Process Development, Analytical Development, and Vector Core groups to deliver robust manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Participate in the design, planning, and execution of experiments to support development, production, and process improvements as part of the Upstream Process Development team.
• Collaborate with lead scientists to perform hands-on work with mammalian suspension cell lines using platforms such as shake flasks, WAVE bioreactors, and/or stirred tank bioreactors.
• Lead the care, maintenance, and operation of state-of-the-art upstream process development technologies, including ambr15, ambr250, and/or small-scale bioreactors.
• Analyze and characterize in-process samples and materials.
• Document work clearly using an electronic lab notebook, analyze and communicate results, and participate in writing and reviewing technical documentation.
• Engage in and influence cross-functional development teams to advance production activities and ensure project success.
• Maintain key lab instrumentation and critical laboratory materials.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Requirements

• B.S. in Bioengineering, Chemical/Biochemical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related degree with 2–4 years of experience, or an M.S. in a related field with 0–2 years of experience.
• Previous experience with mammalian cell culture techniques, such as cell passaging, aseptic processing, transient transfection, and cell culture harvest, is desired.
• Experience in upstream techniques for biologics production, particularly viral vectors (AAV, Lenti), is a plus.
• Familiarity with basic biochemistry laboratory techniques, such as qRT-PCR, SDS-PAGE, Western blot, and ELISA, is desired.
• Strong critical thinking, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and willingness to take on temporary responsibilities outside the initial job description.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced environment with minimal direction and able to adjust workload based on changing priorities.
• Proven ability to manage projects and timelines, organize complex information, prioritize effectively, and adapt to shifting priorities and demanding timelines.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build collaborative relationships within a multidisciplinary team.

This position requires on-site work at one of Sarepta’s U.S. facilities. Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. and fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to their start date, unless a reasonable accommodation is granted.

Pay

The targeted salary range for this position is $70,400 – $88,000 per year. The offer is commensurate with Sarepta’s compensation philosophy and considers factors such as education, training, experience, external market conditions, role criticality, and internal equity.

Benefits

Sarepta Therapeutics offers a competitive compensation and benefits package. For details, visit our website.