Sr. Manager/Associate Director, Analytical Development & Quality Control

The field of gene therapy is growing rapidly and Genezen is here to meet the exacting needs of our clients. We provide process development, produce GMP viral vectors, and provide cell transduction for gene and cell therapy clinical trials and are proud to be a part of the process that leads to new cures.  WORKING AT GENEZEN Many people have worked in environments where you feel like just another nameless part of an enormous machine. Genezen is different. We want our employees to be innovative, collaborative problem solvers who are dedicated to meeting the challenges of working at a fast-growing company. We are dedicated to empowering our employees to be their best and making Genezen a rewarding place to work. Every employee contributes to the success of the company and you can be part of that team. JOB SUMMARY The Senior Manager/Associate Direct, Analytical Development & Quality Control provides scientific, and operational leadership for analytical development and QC functions supporting viral vector programs (AAV, LVV, RVV). This role is accountable for integrating Analytical Development and Quality Control into a unified, phase-appropriate analytical lifecycle that supports both scientific innovation and GMP execution. This role is responsible for coordinating phase-appropriate analytical lifecycle activities that support method development, GMP execution, regulatory readiness, and data integrity. This role partners across Analytical Development, Quality Control, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, Manufacturing, and Process Development to ensure analytical activities are aligned with program needs, GMP expectations, and inspection readiness requirements ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Analytical Development & Lifecycle Management Manage and support analytical method development, qualification, validation, transfer, and lifecycle activities in alignment with ICH Q2/Q10/Q14 principles and program requirements. Implement and maintain method transfer processes, including acceptance criteria, readiness assessments, documentation, and ongoing performance monitoring. Contribute to the development and optimization of analytical platforms and reference standards supporting viral vector characterization. Support development and execution of sampling strategies to ensure representative, compliant testing and clear alignment with program and quality requirements. Quality Control Operations & Stability Lead QC laboratory operations supporting in-process, release, and stability testing. Provide technical decision authority for analytical readiness, method suitability, and QC support of batch disposition. Oversee stability strategies, including protocol design, trending, and shelf-life justification. Direct investigations (OOS, OOT, deviations) and ensure effective CAPA implementation. Ensure QC operations maintain appropriate independence and objectivity in support of quality decisions. Laboratory & Shared Infrastructure Governance Own governance of shared laboratory infrastructure, including equipment lifecycle management, scheduling prioritization, and resource allocation. Ensure appropriate segregation and controls for GMP and non-GMP activities within shared laboratory spaces.  Microbiology, EM & Contamination Control Serve as SME for aseptic processing, contamination control, and microbiological monitoring. Oversee environmental monitoring programs, trending, and control strategies. Ensure microbiological controls support product quality and regulatory compliance. Regulatory Compliance & Inspection Readiness Ensure compliance with cGMP, GLP, FDA, EMA, and applicable regulatory requirements. Serve as primary SME during regulatory inspections and client audits for analytical and QC functions. Support regulatory filings, responses, and analytical justification strategies. Maintain continuous inspection readiness across laboratory operations. Data Integrity, Systems & Continuous Improvement Oversee LIMS, analytical systems, and data integrity (ALCOA+, Part 11) across all laboratory functions. Implement digital solutions, automation, and process improvements to enhance efficiency and compliance. Establish and monitor performance metrics (e.g., turnaround time, right-first-time, deviation trends). Client & Cross-Functional Leadership Act as executive scientific partner for clients and internal stakeholders. Drive alignment across Process Development, Manufacturing, QA, and RA on analytical strategy and readiness. Support proposals, scope definition, and client program execution. Lead analytical aspects of technology transfer and commercialization. Organizational Leadership Lead a hybrid organization with direct oversight of QC and indirect leadership of AD via scientific leads. Build and develop high-performing teams through coaching, performance management, and succession planning. Establish a culture of scientific excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.   KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE EDUCATION / CERTIFICATIONS / LICENSES Essential/Desired BS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related field Essential MS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related field Desired ON-THE-JOB EXPERIENCE Minimum 4 years in a leadership role Essential Minimum 8 - 10 years progressive experience in analytical development, quality control, or related discipline within biopharma or CDMO environments Essential Extensive experience supporting viral vector products across clinical development phases and regulatory submissions Essential Demonstrated success leading analytical development, method validation, and QC Operations in a cGMP environment Essential SKILLS / ABILITIES Strong understanding of analytical methods used for viral vector characterization including: qPCR and ddPCR ELISA Flow cytometry Cell-based potency assays Genome integrity