Assistant Scientist – Assistant Director, Vector Manufacturing and Process & Analytical Development

Ph.D. in a relevant scientific field

The Assistant Scientist serving as Assistant Director of Vector Manufacturing and Process & Analytical Development supports the strategic expansion of UF’s gene therapy manufacturing capabilities. This position provides advanced scientific expertise and operational leadership in vector production, process optimization, technology transfer, and analytical method development at the Powell Gene Therapy Center. The role ensures high-quality, scalable, and compliant production of viral vectors to support preclinical, IND-enabling, and early-phase clinical programs.

Essential Functions:

1. Vector Manufacturing Leadership

• Oversee and guide AAV vector manufacturing operations.

• Ensure manufacturing activities meet scientific, quality, and safety standards.

• Lead troubleshooting and implement CAPA strategies.

2. Process Development & Technology Transfer

• Design and execute process development studies.

• Implement new manufacturing technologies.

• Coordinate technology transfer across groups.

3. Analytical Method Development

• Lead development and qualification of analytical assays.

• Support QC release and regulatory documentation.

• Ensure analytical comparability and product quality.

4. Documentation, Regulatory & Quality Support

• Prepare SOPs, batch records, and technical reports.

• Support IND and CMC submissions.

• Maintain regulatory-compliant documentation.

5. Team Leadership, Training & Collaboration

• Mentor staff and trainees.

• Coordinate cross-functional communication.

• Represent PGTC in scientific and operational meetings.

Commensurate with education and experience 

• Ph.D. in a relevant scientific field
• Experience with AAV or viral vector production and analytics.
• Strong scientific leadership and problem-solving skills.

• Experience with IND-enabling studies and CMC documentation.
• Hands-on experience with bioreactors, chromatography, and analytics.
• Supervisory experience and familiarity with GLP/GMP systems.

Application should include a cover letter, most recent curriculum vitae, and a list of three professional references with contact information or three letters of reference.

Selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered "official" if a designation of "Issued to Student" is visible. Degrees earned from an education institution outside of the United States are required to be evaluated by a professional credentialing service provider approval by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), which can be found at http://naces.org/.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.