The successfull candidate will be responsible for Microbial process development at Apcegen Technologies, IIT Kanpur to optimize and validate existing pre-clinical product manufacturing processes and to develop and characterize upstream and downstream processes of novel recombinant proteins/biosimilars/antibody fragments for clinical application. This role handles upstream cultivation, downstream recovery, and critical analytical testing, meeting CQA's.
Responsibilities
Upstream Process Development
- Bioreactor Operations: Run, monitor, and optimize bench-top E. coli bioreactors for high-density biomass production.
- Induction Strategies: Optimize induction parameters to maximize soluble Fab yields and prevent inclusion bodies.
- Media Optimization: Design fed-batch feed strategies and minimal/complex media compositions to minimize acetate accumulation.
Downstream & Analytics
- Periplasmic Extraction: Execute targeted cell lysis methods like chemical permeabilization, osmotic shock, or microfluidization.
- Primary Recovery using chromatographic methods
- Fab Analytics: Run routine quantitative and qualitative assays including but not limited to SDS-PAGE, Western Blot, SEC-HPLC, RP-HPLC, and intact mass spectrometry.
Documentation & Data Analysis
- Data Synthesis: Analyze fermentation parameters, carbon source consumption, and protein expression kinetics.
- Notebook Management: Maintain precise, real-time laboratory notebooks for regulatory compliance.
- SOP Authorship: Draft standard operating procedures, technical transfer documents, and weekly progress reports.
Technical Competencies
- Fab Expression: Proven experience managing periplasmic translocation pathways (e.g., Sec or Tat pathways) for Fab fragments.
- Software Literacy: Proficiency with bioreactor control systems and HPLC analytical software like Empower or Chromeleon.
- Equipment handling: Hands-on skills in working with Akta and Biorad FPLC systems.
Other Responsibilities
- Participate in technology transfer to the client sites in India as well other countries
- Troubleshoot technical issues and improve processes for higher efficiency
- Maintain scientific excellence and attention to detail in area of protein biochemistry
- Work collaboratively with cross functional teams to advance Company goals
- hands on experience of small scale protein purification and HPLC would be an addeded advantage
- Effective communicator and interpersonal skills
- Team player
Required QualificationsEducation & Experience
- Degree: Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Bioprocess Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Biochemistry.
- Experience: 2–5 years of industrial experience strictly focused on recombinant E. coli expression systems.
Job Type: Full-time
Work Location: In person
