Scientist II – Upstream (Manufacturing Science & Technology)
Location: Dunboyne, County Meath. 
Job Type: Contract 
Shift Pattern: Occasional weekend work (approx. once per month)

About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Scientist II within the Manufacturing Science & Technology (MS&T) sector. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing upstream bioprocessing, supporting new product introductions (NPIs), and driving technical innovation through laboratory-based scale-down models and continuous process improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute and optimise upstream laboratory activities including vial thaws, shake flask passaging, benchtop bioreactor operations (inoculation, sampling, feeding, harvesting).

• Establish and refine scale-down models for upstream processes and conduct satellite studies and improvement initiatives in the MS&T Bioprocess Laboratory.

• Provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise for troubleshooting, data interpretation, and non-routine investigations across the site and the wider network.

• Support the tech transfer of new products into the MS&T laboratory, ensuring seamless integration and scalability of processes.

• Lead design of experiments (DOEs), analyse complex data sets, and deliver actionable insights to improve process performance and robustness.

• Author and review technical documentation including standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols, and comprehensive technical reports.

• Collaborate across cross-functional teams (Quality, Regulatory, Analytics) to deliver process improvements and uphold quality standards.

• Embed Lean Six Sigma and Change Management principles in daily operations and team practices.

• Facilitate root cause analysis and risk assessment exercises such as FMEA to proactively address technical challenges.

• Represent MS&T as an upstream specialist during internal and external audits.

• Maintain close alignment and knowledge-sharing with global development teams and external partners.

Candidate Profile

• Holds a BSc (minimum 5 years’ experience), MSc (minimum 3 years’ experience), or PhD in biotechnology, biochemistry, pharmacy, process engineering, or a related scientific discipline.

• Strong expertise in upstream biologics manufacturing and analytical testing, with proven experience in process development and technology transfer.

• Demonstrates excellent problem-solving, troubleshooting, and analytical capabilities.

• Able to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and collaborate effectively across disciplines.

• Brings a proactive mindset, logical thinking, and the ability to thrive under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience in a GMP-regulated setting is highly desirable.

• Committed to upholding a "safety first, quality always" culture in all activities. 
  
  Our Vision: To be recognised as the best STEM Contracting & Permanent Recruitment company and the Employer of Choice for top performing Recruiters.

  For further information on this role please contact Hannah Talbot 
  Phone: 086 107 0950
  Email: engineering@hero.ie

  Check out all our open jobs on our HERO Recruitment website – https://www.hero.ie/  

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