Co-Op, Cell Banking Process Development

Who is BlueRock?

BlueRock Therapeutics, a wholly-owned and independently operated subsidiary of Bayer AG, is a leading engineered cell therapy company using its unique cell+gene platform to direct cellular differentiation and genetically engineer cells to create a new generation of cellular medicines that address large patient populations suffering from neurological, cardiovascular, and immunology diseases.

The convergence of cell biology and genetic engineering is creating fundamental new ways to impact disease. Founded in 2016 to capitalize on these technological breakthroughs, we are advancing our novel cell+gene platform to develop, manufacture, and deliver an entirely new generation of authentic and engineered cell therapies across three therapeutic areas: neurology, cardiology, and immunology.

What Are We Doing?

Our foundational science harnesses the ability to create and then direct the differentiation of universal pluripotent stem cells into authentic, functional cells that can be used as allogeneic cellular therapies to treat a broad array of diseases. We can also further engineer these cells, enabling them to produce enzymes, antibodies, and other proteins for additional therapeutic benefit.

We are passionate about delivering on the promise of cellular and gene therapy, shaping the future of cellular medicine, and delivering new therapies to millions of patients with treatment options.

We are seeking individuals who are collaborative, thrive in a fun and dynamic culture, and are steadfast in the commitment to advance cutting-edge cellular therapies to impact patients’ lives.

BlueRock is seeking a talented and highly motivated full-time co-op intern to join the Cell Banking Process Development function/sub-team within the Process Development team. As a member of the team, the candidate will contribute to the generation of cell lines and banks of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) that form the foundation of cell-based therapies. The primary responsibilities will be supporting process development work for master cell bank (MCB) and working cell bank (WCB) production towards the goal of ultimately tech-transferring process changes and improvements into GMP manufacturing. There will also be the opportunity to collaborate with other groups within the Process Development team as well as internal and external development partners. In the bigger picture, the successful candidate will be part of developing novel cell-based therapies and bringing regenerative medicines to those who are suffering with intractable diseases. Our dynamic workplace is attractive to those who are self-motivated and resourceful.

Responsibilities

• Perform cell culture procedures including thawing, passaging, expanding and cryopreserving hPSC lines.
• Participate in experimental design, planning and hands-on execution in the lab to support process development for MCB/WCB production and upstream manufacturing.
• Support root cause investigations to troubleshoot failures in cell culture processes and experiments.
• Perform laboratory techniques like cell counting, DNA/RNA extraction, qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, cell processing for downstream applications, various cell characterization assays, and determine experimental outcomes.
• Collect and analyze data in electronic laboratory notebooks from cell processes, various assays, then track and trend data.
• Present scientific data to colleagues in small and large group meetings and forums, prepare and present internal presentations.
• Author study protocols, slide decks, technical reports, and other scientific documents.
• Perform additional duties to support the safe and efficient operation of the laboratory, and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Have currently enrolled in a degree program at an accredited college or university in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences or related field of study.
• Possess the ability to work an 8- to 12-month full-time assignment.
• Must be 18 years of age by the start of the internship/co-op.
• Must have transportation to the BlueRock Therapeutics site in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
• This position is intended to be on-site (always in office/lab) and candidates will be informed should anything change.
• A minimum requirement of 1-2 years of experience in aseptic culture technique, maintaining human or mammalian cell types, and related laboratory experience.
• Experience in working with human pluripotent stem cells is highly advantageous.
• Experience in performing laboratory techniques and cell characterization assays (primarily molecular biology-based) is desirable.
• Ability to work independently and in a group.
• Self-motivated and willing to accept temporary responsibilities outside of the initial job description.
• Competency in computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, sufficient to multi-task and be productive in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities, attention to detail and meticulous bench work.

Work Environment

• In this position you will work in controlled laboratory environments which requires the use of personal protective equipment. There is a risk of potential exposure to chemicals and biohazards in the context of cell therapy.

All Emerging Talent roles are paid $28/hr.