Cell Culture Scientist, Small Scale Production (Plainville, MA) Full-time

Small-Scale Cell Culture Scientist

The Small-Scale Cell Culture Scientist is a hands-on technical contributor in the Bioprocess Design Center (BDC), responsible for designing, executing, and documenting upstream cell culture experiments that generate high-quality technical evidence for Thermo Fisher Scientific's single-use bioprocessing technologies.

This role operates at the intersection of experimental biology and systems-level process design. The successful candidate will independently own small-scale cell culture studies, translate experimental outcomes into actionable insights, and support integrated workflow development across upstream unit operations. While primarily lab-focused, the role requires strong communication skills and comfort engaging with cross-functional partners and customers.

This is an onsite position in Plainville, Massachusetts. Residency within commuting distance is required. No relocation assistance will be provided.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently design and execute small-scale upstream cell culture experiments (typically 2L–50L) using single-use bioreactor systems.
• Incorporate process analytical techniques (PAT), online sensors, and at-line/off-line analytics to monitor and assess cell culture performance.
• Execute mammalian cell culture processes such as fed-batch and intensified workflows, ensuring reproducibility, data integrity, and traceability.
• Troubleshoot experimental and data-related issues, including sensor performance, data quality, and process variability.
• Analyze experimental datasets using advanced data analytics approaches, including multivariate analysis, trend analysis, and statistical methods, as appropriate.
• Leverage JUMP™ and other analytical programs to support data-driven decision making and improve experimental efficiency.
• Translate complex datasets into clear, defensible conclusions and visual summaries suitable for internal and customer-facing audiences.
• Author protocols, technical reports, summaries, and SOPs that integrate experimental outcomes with process data insights.
• Collaborate closely with engineers, scientists, and cross-functional teams to align experimental work with BDC priorities.
• Support customer visits, technical demonstrations, and internal reviews by clearly explaining experimental intent and results.
• Communicate progress, risks, and outcomes effectively to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Maintain a safe, compliant, and organized laboratory environment.
• Follow applicable safety, quality, and data integrity requirements.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of lab workflows and experimental practices.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related field with 3+ years of relevant experience
• M.S. with 2+ years of relevant experience
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered

Experience & Skills

• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and upstream bioprocessing
• Familiarity with single-use bioreactor systems and small-scale process development
• Experience designing and executing controlled experiments; DOE experience preferred
• Strong data analysis, documentation, and technical writing skills
• Working knowledge of GLP/GMP concepts and laboratory best practices
• Proficiency with standard data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, PowerPoint)

Preferred Attributes

• Demonstrated ability to work independently in a fast-paced, matrixed environment
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to translate experimental data into practical insights
• Comfortable operating in environments with evolving requirements and priorities
• Collaborative mindset with a customer-centric orientation

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a laboratory environment and handle light to moderate lifting (up to ~50 lbs)
• Standing and walking for extended periods during experimental execution
• Manual dexterity to operate laboratory equipment and instrumentation

Why Join the Bioprocess Design Center

The BDC is where Thermo Fisher technologies are stress-tested, validated, and transformed into real-world solutions for our customers. This role offers the opportunity to work hands-on with cutting-edge single-use systems, contribute to evidence that shapes customer confidence, and grow within a technically rigorous, highly collaborative environment.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range estimated for this position based in Massachusetts is $96,000.00–$127,000.00. This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:

• A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs
• Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement
• At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy
• Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan
• Employees' Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount