Job Details

Associate Scientist, Cell Processing

Kite Pharma is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing cancer immunotherapies, including CAR T-cell therapies.

We're on a mission to cure cancer by advancing personalized cell therapies. Join us to help shape the future of cancer treatment.

Job Description

We are looking for a highly motivated Associate Scientist to join the Cell Processing team. The role involves developing CAR T cell production processes, focusing on scalability and product attributes, and collaborating with cross‑functional teams to support multiple cell therapy programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform end‑to‑end T cell manufacturing at various scales using different platforms
• CAR T cell therapy process development and optimization
• CAR T cell phenotypic and functional characterization
• Explore T cell priming approaches to improve T cell fitness during CAR T manufacturing
• Work in close collaboration with cross‑functional teams to support pipeline projects
• Communicate plans and scientific results in both oral and written forms
• Coordinate tasks across multiple projects, demonstrating prioritization and planning, managing timelines and deliverables
• Keep electronic notebook and batch record

Basic Qualifications

• 4+ years with a BS
• OR 2+ years with an MS

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical/Biomedical engineering, Cell Biology or related field with 4+ years of relevant industry experience OR Master's degree with 2+ years of relevant industry experience
• Hands‑on experience with development of unit operations applicable in the manufacturing of genetically engineered T cell‑based therapy
• Advanced cell culture techniques with preference for human T cell or other immune cell types
• Proficient in utilizing analytical methods for characterizing and understanding cell therapy product
• Critical thinking, problem solving, and troubleshooting skills
• Proven track record of being self‑motivated, creative, and working both independently and within a highly dynamic team
• Comfortable in a fast‑paced company and able to adjust workload based on changing priorities
• Strong organizational skills and record keeping
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills in a collaborative work environment
• Knowledge of state‑of‑the‑art cell therapy bioprocess technologies
• Proficiency with CliniMACS system and other bio‑process technologies
• Proficiency in operating closed systems in cell therapy manufacturing
• Proficiency in cell‑based assays

People Leader Accountabilities

• Create inclusion - knowing the business value of diverse teams, modeling inclusion, and embedding the value of diversity in team management.
• Develop talent - understand the skills, experience, aspirations and potential of employees and coach them on current performance and future potential.
• Empower teams - connect the team to the organization by aligning goals, purpose, and organizational objectives, and holding them to account.

Benefits & Compensation

Salary range: $109,650.00 - $141,900.00. Eligible for discretionary annual bonus, stock‑based long‑term incentives, paid time off, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Kite Pharma is committed to equal‑opportunity employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.