Scientist, Method Automation

Job Description

Everyone at Kite is grounded by one common goal – curing cancer. Every single day, we seek to establish a direct line between that purpose and our day-to-day work. Join us in this mission!Everyone at Kite is grounded by one common goal – curing cancer. Every single day, we seek to establish a direct line between that purpose and our day-to-day work. Join us in this mission!

Scientist, Method Automation; Analytical Development, Method Development and Automation

Reporting to the Principal Scientist, Method Development and Automation Team

Job Overview:

We are seeking a motivated Scientist, Method Automation to support automated and process analytical technology (PAT)-enabled analytical workflows within Analytical Development. This role will contribute to method automation, assay workflow optimization, technology evaluations, and data-rich testing approaches that improve efficiency, reproducibility, data integrity, and transfer readiness.

The successful candidate will work closely with cross-functional partners to translate manual or semi-manual methods into robust automated workflows, generate high-quality technical data, and support method lifecycle activities for cell therapy and related biopharmaceutical programs.

Why this role matters: This role provides hands-on growth at the intersection of analytical development, automation, digital tools, and PAT while supporting workflows that reduce manual variability and improve analytical consistency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support development, optimization, automation, and lifecycle activities for analytical workflows across relevant assay formats.

• Assist in translating manual and semi-manual methods into automated workflows using liquid handlers, integrated systems, instrument software, and digital tools.

• Execute experiments supporting method development, robustness, comparability, verification, validation, QC transfer, and troubleshooting.

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot automation platforms, assay workflows, instrument integrations, and enabling technologies for reliable and compliant execution.

• Contribute to automation, PAT, and digital integration evaluations, including LIMS, ELN, structured data systems, instrument connectivity, electronic batch records, and analytics platforms.

• Collaborate with cross-functional partners to support method readiness, sampling strategies, transfer expectations, documentation, data review, and continuous improvement.

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD 0+ years of relevant experience in analytical development, method development, method automation, bioassay development, or a related biopharmaceutical laboratory environment.

or

• MS with 4+ years of relevant experience in analytical development, method development, method automation, bioassay development, or a related biopharmaceutical laboratory environment.

or

• BS with 6+ years of relevant experience in analytical development, method development, method automation, bioassay development, or a related biopharmaceutical laboratory environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD 3+ years of relevant experience in analytical development, method development, method automation, bioassay development, or a related biopharmaceutical laboratory environment.

or

• MS with 6+ years of relevant experience in analytical development, method development, method automation, bioassay development, or a related biopharmaceutical laboratory environment.

or

• BS with 8+ years of relevant experience in analytical development, method development, method automation, bioassay development, or a related biopharmaceutical laboratory environment.

• Experience with liquid handling or automation platforms such as Hamilton, TECAN, Biomek, Integra, or comparable systems.

• Experience with high-throughput assays, analytical method lifecycle activities, QC transfer, or regulated method execution.

• Exposure to PAT, digital laboratory integration, LIMS, ELN, structured data systems, instrument connectivity, electronic batch records, or analytics platforms.

• Experience with design of experiments, data-rich experimentation, automation scripting, Python, multivariate analysis, machine learning, or comparable tools.

• Working knowledge of GMP, ALCOA+, 21 CFR Part 11, ICH guidance, regulated documentation, investigations, deviations, change controls, or transfer practices.

• Hands-on experience developing, optimizing, automating, executing, or transferring analytical methods in a biopharmaceutical, cell therapy, gene therapy, biologics, or complex therapeutic setting.

• Experience with laboratory automation, liquid handling systems, integrated analytical instruments, assay workflow optimization, or comparable enabling technologies.

• Working knowledge of analytical method development, data analysis, troubleshooting, technical documentation, GMP expectations, and data integrity principles.

• Strong communication, collaboration, organization, and problem-solving skills in cross-functional, fast-paced environments.

Career Growth Opportunities:

• Build hands-on expertise in analytical development, automation, PAT, digital integration, and data-rich workflows.

• Grow toward independent ownership of automated methods, technology evaluations, and method lifecycle activities.

• Develop cross-functional experience with Process Development, QC, Manufacturing, MSAT, Attribute Sciences, and Analytical Lifecycle Management partners.