Associate Principal Scientist – mRNA Process Development (Downstream)

Geleen, The Netherlands

As an Associate Principal Scientist within mRNA Process Development, you will focus on downstream purification and scalable process development for mRNA. Working in a multidisciplinary development team, you will design and optimize purification processes that support high product quality, process robustness and manufacturability. Your work will contribute to the successful transfer of innovative mRNA processes into GMP manufacturing.

This is a fully site-based role. Working together in person supports close, real-time collaboration and the technical precision needed to manufacture medicines to the highest quality and safety standards.

What you will get

• The opportunity to shape downstream process development within an expanding mRNA platform.
• Hands-on involvement with advanced chromatography and filtration technologies.
• Close collaboration with MSAT, Analytical Development and Manufacturing teams.
• The opportunity to contribute to innovative process development programs with global impact.
• Compensation programs that recognize high performance.
• A variety of benefits dependent on role and location.
• The full list of our global benefits can be found here: https://www.lonza.com/careers/benefits.
  

What you will do

• Design, execute and optimize downstream purification experiments for mRNA process development.
• Develop and optimize chromatography processes, including affinity and ion-exchange chromatography.
• Lead tangential flow filtration (TFF) development, optimization and scale-up activities.
• Analyze process data to improve yield, purity, scalability and process robustness.
• Contribute to experimental planning, process characterization studies and risk assessments.
• Support the technology transfer of downstream processes into GMP manufacturing in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Document experimental work and communicate technical findings through clear reports and presentations.
  

What we are looking for

• A degree in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related scientific field.
• Hands-on experience in downstream process development for biologics, nucleic acids or related biomolecules.
• Experience with chromatography and filtration technologies, including tangential flow filtration.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate experimental data into process improvements.
• A structured approach to laboratory work, supported by excellent documentation practices.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary project teams.
• The ability to independently plan, prioritize and execute laboratory activities.
  

The full-time annual base pay for this position in The Netherlands is expected to range between €53.250 and €74.550. Initial salary placement within this range will be determined based on role-related factors such as experience, qualifications, and expected contribution.

About Lonza

At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone’s ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that’s the kind of work we want you to be part of.

Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re ready to help turn our customers’ breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board.

Ready to shape the future of life sciences? Apply now.