Senior Research Associate

We believe that diverse perspectives are foundational to scientific innovation and inquiry. At Altos, exceptional scientists and industry leaders from around the world work together to advance a shared mission. Our intentional focus is on Belonging, so that all employees know that they are valued for their unique perspectives. We are all accountable for sustaining a diverse and inclusive environment.

What You Will Contribute To Altos 

We are seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Scientist to join the Drug Product Process Development team within Technical Operations at the Institute of Medicine. This is a predominantly bench-based role; the successful candidate will independently design and execute experiments daily, advancing mRNA-LNP,AAV and Protein-based therapeutic programs. Working in a dynamic and cross-functional environment, this scientist will perform formulation and drug product process development, and provide technical support for outsourced GMP manufacturing activities.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on formulation and drug product process development for mRNA-LNP therapeutics, with additional involvement in AAV gene therapy and protein drug product development.
• Design and execute experiments to develop stable and effective drug product formulations, including excipient selection, concentration optimization, and compatibility studies; build internal drug product process development capabilities and produce materials to supply non-clinical studies.
• Develop and scale up drug product manufacturing processes, considering critical process parameters (CPPs) and critical quality attributes (CQAs); apply statistical analysis and experimental design to optimize process parameters and maximize product yield and quality.
• Conduct stability testing to assess the long-term integrity of drug products under various storage conditions and identify potential degradation pathways.
• Collaborate with CDMOs to optimize and improve drug product manufacturing processes, support scale-up, and contribute to in-process control strategies; provide technical support for GMP manufacturing activities including document review.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, document experimental protocols and results, and contribute to development reports and regulatory submissions.
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory guidelines to support continuous process improvement and compliance.
• Actively contribute to a team culture of continuous improvement, ownership, professional growth, and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Scientist Level Reqrurement: Ph.D. in chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, biotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field with 2–3 years of relevant industry experience
• Senior Research Associate Requirement: Master’s degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 6 years of relevant industry experience in drug product process development
• Hands-on experience with mRNA-LNP formulation and/or process development is strongly preferred.
• Experience with protein therapeutics and/or AAV gene therapy formulation development is a plus.
• Experience with formulation development, process optimization, and drug product development 
• Experience with drug product unit operations (e.g., filling, filtration, mixing), including scale-down model development, characterization, and scale-up.
• Understanding of the physical and chemical stability of biologics and how process-related stresses impact product quality.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to independently design experiments, interpret complex data sets, and communicate findings clearly.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, adapting readily to shifting priorities with a willingness to develop new technical skills and to work across multiple therapeutic modalities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to collaborate effectively in a diverse, global, cross-functional organization and a commitment to diversity, equity, and belonging.
• This is a full-time onsite role (five days per week) in Redwood City, CA, with ad-hoc flexibility.
• Final job level will be determined based on the selected candidate’s experience and qualifications.

The salary range for Redwood City, CA:

• Scientist I, Drug Product: $113,100 - $145,000
• Scientist II, Drug Product: $136,000 - $174,400

The salary range for Redwood City, CA:

• Senior Research Associate: $109,200 - $140,000
• Research Specialist: $129,500 - $166,000

Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and location.

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