About ExcellGene SA

ExcellGene is a privately-owned contract research, development and manufacturing organization (CRDMO) based in Monthey, Switzerland, and Boston, Massachusetts. ExcellGene’s unique transient and stable protein expression technologies together with extensive knowledge and experience in the biotech field cover broad value chain for its clients: from DNA construction and transfection to bioprocess development of scalable and GMP-compliant protein production processes. ExcellGene’s technology is one of the most advanced for rapid production of recombinant proteins and up to several grams of product delivered within weeks.

In our relentless pursuit of excellence within our Downstream Processing (DSP biologics) team, ExcellGene invites a passionate scientist to join our ranks to fill the following pivotal role:

(Senior-) Laboratory Technician DSP

Research Associate DSP (biologics)

This position is permanent and full-time, and to start immediately.

Responsibilities

(Senior-) Laboratory Technician DSP

Plan and executepurifications at various scales (lab-, mid- and large-) using established experimental procedures to deliver purified proteins, including production of non-GMP lots for Tox studies;
Prepare mobile phases/buffers and aliquot drug substances;
Support DSP development for biologics across pre-clinical and clinical phases;
Conduct and support DSP laboratory experiments, collect, record and analyze raw data, perform preliminary analyses and prepare internal reports to support scientific conclusions;
Monitor the progress of laboratory activities in relation to specific projects to support the DSP Research Associate and the progress of customer projects;
Verify and calibrate periodically DSP laboratory equipment;
Actively contribute to the development and optimization of DSP methods and processes;
Support other DSP activities as required;
Maintain high standards of quality, cleanliness and organization (stock of equipment/consumables) in the laboratory environment;
Participate in ordering and inventory management for the DSP laboratory.

Research Associate (DSP biologics)

Develop and optimize DSP methods/processes at various scales (lab-, mid- and large-), implement new technologies, search knowledge from scientific and technical literature;
Plan and execute Downstream process development of biosimilar/biologics drug substance in pre-clinical and clinical phases (scale-down models and scale-up procedures);
Execute purifications to expected specifications, including production of non-GMP lots for Tox studies;
Write protocols, reports, records and manage and evaluate raw data/analyses/results, forming of sound scientific conclusions ;
Lead DSP activities within project technical teams and communicate achievements, risks and issues in all areas and contribute to root cause investigations and troubleshooting;
Prepare process development reports and presentations for internal and/or external client meetings.
Good/strong knowledge and some/solid experience in downstream processing (development) concepts and implementation ( buffer preparation, viral inactivation/filtration, chromatography, TFF, Äkta, FPLC systems ). Viral safety expertise , a plus.
Good/strong knowledge and hands-on experience in chromatography-based protein purification (affinity, ion-exchange, hydrophobic interactions, SEC size-exclusion) and filtration-based separation methods for biologics.
Knowledge/experience in viral inactivation/ filtration, a plus.
Knowledge/experience in DSP scale-up and development of scale-down models, a plus.
Knowledge in high-throughput DSP development and DoE, a plus.
Scientifically curious, proactive, willingness to learn;
Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills and a hands-on approach to work;
Rigorousness, strong sense of discipline and attention to details;
Ability to work independently within a multicultural team;
Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced and dynamic environment with excellent communication skills in both French and English.

Required Skills

Good/strong knowledge and some/solid experience in downstream processing (development) concepts and implementation ( buffer preparation, viral inactivation/filtration, chromatography, TFF, Äkta, FPLC systems). Viral safety expertise, a plus.
Good/strong knowledge and hands-on experience in chromatography-based protein purification ( affinity, ion-exchange, hydrophobic interactions, SEC size-exclusion ) and filtration-based separation methods for biologics.
Knowledge/experience in viral inactivation/ filtration , a plus.
Knowledge/experience in DSP scale-up and development of scale-down models , a plus.
Knowledge in high-throughput DSP development and DoE , a plus.

Soft skills

Scientifically curious, proactive, willingness to learn;
Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills and a hands-on approach to work;
Rigorousness, strong sense of discipline and attention to details;
Ability to work independently within a multicultural team;
Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced and dynamic environment with excellent communication skills in both French and English.

Mandatory Requirements

Technician's, bachelor's or technical diploma in biochemistry/biology (CFC, HES, BTS, IUT...) with a minimum of 1 year in pharmaceutical production (clinical or commercial DSP).

Minimum B.Sc., or M.Sc.. in Biotechnology, Biology, Chemistry or a related field with 4 to 6 years in biopharmaceutical industry, including 2 years in DSP process development.

If you are a highly motivated scientist with a passion for the biotech industry, we invite you to join ExcellGene. In this role, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact and contribute to advancing healthcare through groundbreaking scientific innovations in the biotech industry.

ExcellGene offers competitive remuneration and benefits including short-term and long-term incentives. We are an innovative, rapidly growing company that values integrity, impact and involvement and provides opportunity for growth. Our organization is international, family-oriented and offers flexible working arrangements.

ExcellGene is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing a supportive environment with equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, marital status or any other attribute protected by applicable law.

Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, duties, or responsibilities. The company reserves the right to modify, add, or remove job functions as deemed necessary.

Laboratory Technician DSP or Research Associate DSP