At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead upstream process development for biosimilar mAb programmes and optimise mammalian cell culture processes.
- Company: Join a UK-based biopharma organisation with a focus on innovative biosimilars.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, and benefits with visa support for international applicants.
- Other info: Visible leadership role with excellent career growth opportunities in a dynamic lab setting.
- Why this job: Shape cutting-edge processes and make a real impact in a growing R&D environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in biosimilars development and strong hands-on skills in upstream processes.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
BioTalent are partnered with a UK-based biopharma organisation building serious upstream development capability within a global biosimilars portfolio. This role sits within a growing R&D site focused on monoclonal antibody biosimilars. The remit spans early optimisation through to late-stage process characterisation and scale-up readiness. This is development, not manufacturing. The focus is on designing, optimising and stress-testing mammalian cell culture processes so they are robust, scalable and aligned to defined QTPPs and CQAs.
The Role
- You will lead upstream process development activities across biosimilar mAb programmes, with hands-on involvement across:
- Mammalian cell culture optimisation and clone/process evaluation
- Titre optimisation through feeding strategy and environmental control
- Control of glycosylation profile and charge variant distribution
- Use of Ambr 250 for high-throughput process screening and optimisation
- Operation of lab-scale bioreactors up to 5L
- Development and validation of scale-down models
- Process characterisation studies aligned to regulatory expectations
- Evaluation of CPP impact on CQA performance
- Fed batch and intensified process development
- Data-driven decision making using DoE and multivariate analysis
- Preparation for scale-up into pilot scale and technology transfer to MSAT
You will guide 2-5 scientists technically, reviewing experimental design, challenging data interpretation and ensuring development work is aligned with late-stage expectations. The environment is roughly 60% lab based and 40% data review, experimental planning, documentation and cross-functional interaction. You will work closely with downstream, analytical and MSAT functions to ensure upstream outputs are robust and transferable.
Essential Experience
- Direct biosimilars development experience
- Strong hands-on upstream development experience with mAbs
- Practical use of Ambr 250 systems
- Operation of lab-scale stirred tank bioreactors up to 5L
- Experience across early and late-stage development
- Scale-down model development and process characterisation
- Technology transfer experience into or out of manufacturing environments
- Strong understanding of CPP, CQA and QbD principles
- Experience applying DoE and statistical tools in process optimisation
This is not suitable for:
- GMP production supervisors without development exposure
- Upstream scientists without biosimilars experience
- Large-scale commercial fermentation specialists without lab-scale development depth
Why Move
You will not be one upstream scientist among dozens. You will shape how processes are designed, stress-tested and prepared for scale. This is a visible technical leadership position within a growing site backed by a strong global pipeline. Competitive Salary plus bonus and benefits.
Upstream Team Lead - Biosimilars/mAbs Process Development employer: BioTalent
Join a pioneering UK-based biopharma organisation that prioritises innovation and employee development in the field of biosimilars. With a collaborative work culture and a focus on cutting-edge research, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team while enjoying competitive salaries, bonuses, and comprehensive benefits. This role not only offers hands-on experience in upstream process development but also provides a platform for professional growth within a supportive environment that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Upstream Team Lead - Biosimilars/mAbs Process Development
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Upstream Team Lead - Biosimilars/mAbs Process Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show BioTalent that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at BioTalent.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that BioTalent does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at BioTalent
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at BioTalent. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into BioTalent's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at BioTalent. This shows your passion for the industry!
