Scientist II, Biomaterials

We are seeking a Scientist II, Biomaterials, to join Aspect’s Preclinical Research & Development team.  You will design, generate and characterize biomaterials that address specific bioprinted tissue therapeutic application needs while expanding the portfolio of biomaterials used in the production of these therapeutic implants for preclinical and nonclinical testing. Working closely with our team of scientists and engineers, you will play a pivotal role in the development of material strategy solutions for bioprinted tissue therapeutics.

  Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and functionalize natural biomaterials and synthetic polymers that support bioprinted tissue therapeutic function, tolerance, and durability.
• Develop biomaterial strategies and hydrogel formulations that enable: 1) bioprinted therapeutic cell function and immune-protection, 2) bioprinted tissue oxygenation and vascularization, and 3) biocompatible and durable integration with host tissue implant site.
• Design and execute studies to characterize the physical and chemical properties of hydrogel biomaterials
• Provide technical domain expertise on polymer backbone, cross-linking, and stability characteristics of biomaterial-based hydrogels.
• Serve as technical lead for third party search and evaluation of biomaterials sourced for manufacturing of bioprinted tissue therapeutics.
• Work closely with biologists and engineers to customize biomaterial formulations for specific therapeutic tissue applications needs, including cell therapies for metabolic disease.
• Liaise with our manufacturing and regulatory team to develop stage-appropriate biomaterial manufacturing processes, scalable sourcing of materials, and quality assurance measures for preclinical, nonclinical safety, and clinical studies.
• Create SOPs, deliver experimental reports, support patent applications, and present experimental results to key internal and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to development of project milestones, timelines, and product deliverables in collaboration with senior R&D management and tissue therapeutic program teams.
• Maintain clear and rigorous experimental records.

Qualifications                                                                         

• PhD in chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, tissue engineering, or similar discipline. Minimum of 5 years directly related experience, with at least 3 years of industry experience preferred.
• You have hands-on experience in a lab doing polymer design, synthesis, functionalization, and processing for drug delivery, tissue engineering, cell therapeutic, or medical device applications. You have worked extensively with synthetic or natural biomaterials as well as hydrogels, developing strategies to characterize bioactivity and assure quality for therapeutic applications. Experience in bioink formulation for 3D bioprinting or testing of biomaterials in preclinical models or clinical applications in an industry setting is helpful.

Who You Are                                                                          

• Intellectually Curious: You have a burning desire to learn more and aren’t afraid to ask questions.
• Problem Solver: You love immersing yourself in difficult technical problems and coming up with solutions that work. You think outside the box and use your experience and intuition to identify when such solutions are realistic.
• Detail-Oriented & Meticulously Organized: You have outstanding attention to detail and take pride in your work. You can multitask, prioritize competing deadlines, and have a track record for delivering work on time.
• Thrive in Ambiguity: You are highly adaptable, agile, and poised when faced with change, ambiguity, and competing priorities.
• Collaborative: You thrive in a multi-disciplinary team environment and believe that we can get further, faster by working together.
• Effective Communicator: You are an active listener who can effectively communicate to different audiences in diverse situations.
• Go-Getter: You work with a sense of urgency, are results-driven, and thrive in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary, and entrepreneurial environment. You are willing to roll up your sleeves and do what it takes to get the job done.

The hiring range for this role is $89,000 - $126,700, annually. Our ranges are based on market data. Offered salaries will be based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience. For candidates who exceed role requirements, we are open to exploring above-range offers. Note that base salary is just one part of the overall compensation at Aspect. Members of the Aspect team also receive equity, a comprehensive benefits package, and support for continuous learning and career progression.