Scientist, Analytical Ops- Mass Spectrometry

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 fulfill their aspirations. Join Kite and help create more tomorrows.

Job Description

Reporting to the Director, Attribute Sciences Biophysical Characterization, the Scientist will apply mass spectrometry and proteomics technologies to assess product quality attributes, guide process development, and expand product knowledge for viral vector-based gene delivery platforms and T-cell therapies. The successful candidate will independently plan and execute studies, analyze and interpret data, and communicate results clearly to cross-functional partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute mass spectrometry studies to assess viral vector and cell therapy final-product attributes.
• Perform in-house studies on biological samples, including characterization of host cell proteins, post-translational modifications, and relative protein abundance.
• Develop and apply mass spectrometry methods, and troubleshoot instrumentation, sample preparation, and data-processing workflows.
• Analyze and interpret complex data sets and present conclusions and recommendations to cross-functional teams.
• Author, review, and edit technical documents, including study plans, SOPs, protocols, and reports.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and traceable experimental documentation in electronic laboratory notebooks and technical reports.
• Collaborate with Cell and Vector Attribute Sciences teams to inform product-characterization and product-knowledge strategies that advance pipeline programs.
• Stay current with analytical platforms, cell and gene therapy industry practices, and emerging innovations relevant to viral vector and cell therapy products.
• Contribute to a safe, compliant, inclusive, and collaborative laboratory environment.

Level-Specific Scope

Scientist:

• Technical execution: Independently plans and executes defined studies and method-development activities; applies established and emerging methods with sound scientific judgment.
• Data interpretation: Interprets results, identifies trends and limitations, and communicates scientifically sound conclusions.
• Project ownership: Owns assigned deliverables, timelines, documentation, and coordination with key partners.
• Technical influence: Shares expertise and contributes to team problem solving and continuous improvement.
• Communication: Presents results clearly and authors high-quality technical documentation.

Basic Qualifications

Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related discipline

OR

Master’s degree with 4+ years of relevant experience

OR

Bachelor’s degree with 6+ years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years hands-on experience applying mass spectrometry to proteomics and protein-characterization applications.
• Experience operating multiple mass spectrometry platforms and analyzing data generated from those systems.
• Experience with sample preparation and workflows for host cell protein profiling, post-translational modification characterization, and relative protein quantitation.
• Proficiency in interpreting and statistically analyzing large proteomics data sets using appropriate data-analysis software and workflows.
• Strong critical thinking, troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience working with viral vectors, biologics, cell therapy products, or other complex biological matrices.
• Experience with orthogonal particle characterization technologies, such as dynamic light scattering (DLS), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and imaging-based methods (e.g., electron microscopy or flow imaging) is a plus.
• Working knowledge of analytical development, method qualification, data integrity, and documentation expectations in a regulated biopharmaceutical environment.
• Highly collaborative, with strong interpersonal, verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, adaptable, and comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Success in This Role

• Delivers scientifically rigorous studies and defensible conclusions that increase product and process understanding.
• Builds effective partnerships across analytical, process development, and program teams.

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