Associate Principal Scientist, Cell Culture Development

Today, Lonza is a global leader in life sciences operating across three continents. While we work in science, there’s no magic formula to how we do it. Our greatest scientific solution is talented people working together, devising ideas that help businesses to help people. In exchange, we let our people own their careers. Their ideas, big and small, genuinely improve the world. And that’s the kind of work we want to be part of.

As a Lead Scientist in Cell Culture Development, you will demonstrate technical capability and scientific understanding in one or more areas of expertise. Track record in the delivery of multiple concurrent projects of increasing complexity. Technical and scientific depth of understanding and able to contribute to troubleshooting complex technical and scientific issues. Plans the execution of projects and leads junior scientists. Recognized as SME by the global lab network. Performs training. Performs hands on lab work with high levels of RFT. Customer interaction as senior member of internal and customer project teams. Supports the lab by taking a role in the lab housekeeping teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute routine cell culture processes (e.g., CLC, bioreactors, or characterization stages)

• Lead multiple projects in your area of expertise, providing oversight to junior scientists within the project teams.

• Efficiently manage personal and team workflows to meet project goals with minimal supervision.

• Demonstrate a history of successfully delivering projects of increasing complexity.

• Document results in alignment with Lonza policies and cGMP requirements as applicable.

• Serve as a department/site Subject Matter Expert (SME) in one or more technical areas aligned with your training.

• Build and maintain a network of contacts on-site and globally to support project objectives.

• Provide general lab support, including housekeeping, equipment maintenance, and inventory management, while driving operational efficiency initiatives.

• Troubleshoot equipment and scientific issues effectively.

• Actively participate in internal and customer project teams, including direct communication and external presentations.

• Prepare reports and protocols suitable for management review and review communications from junior team members.

• Train team members in lab procedures and provide scientific guidance.

• Collaborate with project managers and business unit teams to develop scopes of work and amendments.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Key Requirements

• Degree or PhD in Biological Science/Engineering relevant to the area of expertise.

• 5-10 years of laboratory experience in industry or academia (with a PhD).

• In-depth understanding of the scientific rationale underpinning one or more technical areas in biopharmaceutical development.

• Knowledge of cGMP regulations.

• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical abilities paired with strong communication skills.

Every day, Lonza’s products and services have a positive impact on millions of people. For us, this is not only a great privilege, but also a great responsibility. How we achieve our business results is just as important as the achievements themselves. At Lonza, we respect and protect our people and our environment. Any success we achieve is no success at all if not achieved ethically.

People come to Lonza for the challenge and creativity of solving complex problems and developing new ideas in life sciences. In return, we offer the satisfaction that comes with improving lives all around the world. The satisfaction that comes with making a meaningful difference.