Senior Engineer / Principal Engineer, Lentivirus Downstream Process Development

Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to treating and, one day, curing life-threatening diseases. Headquartered in Bridgewater, New Jersey, we are advancing the next generation of cell therapy through a portfolio of innovative technologies, including autologous, allogeneic, and in vivo cell therapy approaches. Our research spans chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T), T-cell receptor (TCR-T), natural killer (NK) cell-based therapies, and other emerging platforms designed to transform the treatment of serious diseases. From our global network of research and development sites, we are committed to discovering and developing safe, effective, and cutting-edge therapies for patients worldwide. Legend Biotech entered into a global collaboration agreement with Johnson & Johnson to jointly develop and commercialize CARVYKTI® (ciltacabtagene autoleucel; cilta-cel). Through this strategic partnership, we combine complementary expertise and capabilities to advance innovative immunotherapies for patients living with multiple myeloma. Legend Biotech is seeking a Senior Engineer / Principal Engineer, Lentivirus Downstream Process Development as part of the Technical Development team based in Somerset, NJ. Role Overview The Senior Engineer / Principal Engineer, Lentivirus Downstream Process Development will be responsible for designing, optimizing, and scaling purification processes for lentiviral vectors (LVV) within our innovative pipeline. This role focuses on delivering high-quality vector products to support LVV generation and other advanced cell therapy programs. The successful candidate will drive scientific excellence in scaling automation capabilities from concept to operation, integrating analytics and modeling into downstream workflows, and translating microscale insights into robust, scalable processes for GMP manufacturing. The level and scope of responsibility will be determined based on the candidate's experience, technical expertise, and demonstrated impact. Key Responsibilities Build state-of-the-art mechanistic and hybrid models that directly influence the development of LVV downstream processing, building operational efficiency through model-first and AI-enabled development strategies. Apply core engineering concepts including mass transfer, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics to build robust in silico process models. Perform data analytics using ML algorithms for modeling and clustering to generate process insights. Working closely with the team to implement development and optimization of downstream processes including clarification (depth filtration, centrifugation), chromatography (AEX, SEC, HIC), and Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF). Lead or support the translation of bench-scale processes to GMP manufacturing, ensuring seamless technology transfer and providing troubleshooting support during clinical production runs. Design/Implement different Advanced Process Control (APC) strategies (e.g., MPC, State Estimators) to optimize process performance. Communicate potential issues and delays along with solutions and mitigation approaches. In collaboration with senior leaders and cross-functional partners, identify project acceleration opportunities. Leverage advanced science and technology to maximize vector recovery, purity, and potency. Provide technical guidance and collaborate with scientists and cross-functional team members in the execution of project-specific activities. Author and serve as a primary reviewer for technical documents, including development reports, SOPs, and CMC sections for regulatory submissions. Work closely with Upstream Process Development and Analytical Development teams to ensure integrated process outcomes. Tech transfer process to/from other Legend sites or CDMOs. Proactively identify technical challenges and drive effective solutions and mitigation strategies. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Requirements Advanced degree (PhD preferred, or MS) in Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, or a related field. 6+ years (PhD) or 8+ years (MS) of experience in process development or manufacturing within a biotech or pharmaceutical setting. Candidates with additional experience and demonstrated technical leadership may be considered at the Principal Engineer level. Strong engineering knowledge of bioprocess modeling/simulation and the interaction of biomolecules, materials, and machinery. Experience with modeling software and programming languages such as Python and/or MATLAB preferred. Strong technical experience in purification, chromatography, and TFF, with demonstrated expertise in downstream process development. Understanding of GMP manufacturing requirements and CMC strategies for clinical-stage product development. Experience with lentiviral vector technologies preferred. Candidates with relevant viral vector, biologics, gene therapy, or advanced therapy process development experience will also be considered. Strong communication, collaboration, leadership, and problem-solving skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams and navigate complex development timelines. Creative and strategic thinking. Strong troubleshooting skills. Preferred experience in developing vector processes tailored for in vivo CAR-T generation and systemic delivery. Preferred experience in large-scale (>50L) purification processes. Language(s): English. Mandarin is a plus. #Li-JR1 #Li-Onsite The base pay range below is what Legend Biotech USA Inc. reasonably expects to offer at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, skills, qualifications, and geographic location. The company reserves the right to modify this range as needed and in accordance with applicable laws. Other Types of Pay: Performance-based bonus and/or equity is available to employees in eligible