Associate Scientist - Analytical Development: Sample Management, ddPCR

Job Description

We’re here for one reason and one reason only – to cure cancer. Every moment is dedicated to developing treatments and every action moves us one step closer to our goal. We’ve made incredible scientific breakthroughs and our pioneering personalized CAR T-cell therapies have changed the paradigm. But we're not finished yet.

Join Kite, as we make even bigger advances in cancer therapies, and help shape where our business and medical science goes next.

We believe every employee deserves a great leader. People Leaders are the cornerstone to the employee experience at Gilead and Kite. As a people leader now or in the future, you are the key driver in evolving our culture and creating an environment where every employee feels included, developed and empowered to fulfil their aspirations. Join Kite and help create more tomorrows.

Job Description

Kite is seeking a highly motivated individual, with Analytical Development (AD) method and testing experience, to support a team responsible for testing vector samples, to support parallel Vector work. Specifically, characterization via rapid testing across multiple molecular, flow cytometry and immunoassay methods. In addition, the team member will be responsible for vector sample receipt and management, using a LIMS system. The Associate Scientist will join AD’s Testing and Logistics team, which is responsible for characterization of T-cell and vector samples throughout multiple process development stages, as well as extended characterization/investigative support for manufacturing. The staff member will also assist in planning and executing laboratory studies, analyzing/reviewing experimental data and careful documentation of procedures. The role requires to report onsite 4 – 5 days per week.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Receipt and inventory of critical, viral vector samples
• Analytical testing of viral vector samples across multiple testing platforms:
  • Viral titer, IFU assays, ddPCR
  • Immunoassays (e.g., ELISA, Luminex)
  • Titer determined using additional Molecular Biology and other techniques (e.g., Flow Cytometry)
• Tracking of critical reagent quantity and preparation/characterization of critical reagent lots, as needed

• Perform testing documentation in a LIMS system, data analysis and data reporting, on defined and expedited, timelines, as needed
• Assist in data review and data verification for colleagues
• Lead/conduct method troubleshooting, as needed
• Use of Good Documentation Practices (GDP) to document laboratory activities and ensure data integrity
• Write, review and edit technical documents, including SOPs, protocols, and reports, as required
• Support the maintenance and calibration of laboratory instruments
• Perform data analysis, data reporting, and further statistical analysis, with advanced analysis software
• Provide training on instruments, sample data analysis and on laboratory analytical methods
• Support sample management functions, which may require occasional weekend work
• Additional responsibilities may be assigned, to reflect changes in business processes

Requirements

• MS degree in the field of Biological Sciences, or related field, with 2+ years of experience OR
• BA or BS degree in the field of Biological Sciences, or related field, with 4+ years of experience

Additional Qualifications

• 2+ years of PCR and ELISA experience, in academia or industry
• ddPCR experience is highly preferred
• Immunology knowledge, is a plus
• Previous experience with cell therapy products, is a plus
• High level of proficiency using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Experience with JMP statistical software, is beneficial
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, as well as strong problem solving and analytical skills, and the ability to work in a cross-functional/matrix environment

The salary range for this position is: $99,705.00 - $129,030.00. Kite considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary. This position may also be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, discretionary stock-based long-term incentives (eligibility may vary based on role), paid time off, and a benefits package. Benefits include company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans*.

For additional benefits information, visit:

https://www.gilead.com/careers/compensation-benefits-and-wellbeing

* Eligible employees may participate in benefit plans, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.

Kite is a biopharmaceutical company engaged in the development of innovative cancer immunotherapies with a goal of providing rapid, long-term durable response and eliminating the burden of chronic care. The company is focused on chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) and T cell receptor (TCR) engineered cell therapies designed to empower the immune system's ability to recognize and kill tumors. Kite is based in Santa Monica, CA. For more information on Kite, please visit www.kitepharma.com. Sign up to follow @KitePharma on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kitepharma.

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Gilead Sciences Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment comprised of diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. Employment decisions regarding recruitment and selection will be made without discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, genetic information or characteristic, gender identity and expression, veteran status, or other non-job related characteristics or other prohibited grounds specified in applicable federal, state and local laws. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact ApplicantAccommodations@gilead.com for assistance.

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For Current Kite Pharma Employees and Contractors:

Please apply via the Internal Career Opportunities portal in Workday.