Job Description

About Loopworm

Loopworm is pioneering a breakthrough in recombinant protein production with our novel LoopBac platform — using insects as miniature biofactories instead of conventional cell culture systems. This disruptive approach offers cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable protein manufacturing for applications in life sciences, animal health, and beyond.

Position Summary

A Scientist – Downstream Process Development (DSP) with 3–5 years of hands-on R&D experience in protein purification and downstream process development. This role is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing robust, scalable purification processes from early-stage research through pilot-scale readiness. The Scientist will work closely with upstream, analytical, quality, and manufacturing teams, applying strong scientific reasoning and data-driven approaches to enable efficient process development and successful technology transfer.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize end-to-end downstream purification processes for recombinant and/or native proteins.
• Develop purification strategies involving clarification, chromatography, and UF/DF operations.
• Conduct early-stage feasibility assessments and resin/technology scouting to establish purification platforms.
• Optimize critical process parameters to improve yield, purity, process consistency, and robustness.
• Apply Design of Experiments (DoE) and statistical tools for systematic process optimization and understanding.
• Develop scalable and transferable DSP processes suitable for pilot-scale and manufacturing-scale implementation.
• Support scale-up studies, process characterization, and robustness assessments.
• Generate process knowledge packages to support technology transfer to manufacturing sites or CDMOs.
• Execute lab-scale and bench-scale purification experiments using ÄKTA or equivalent chromatography systems.
• Perform data analysis, interpret experimental outcomes, and make data-driven recommendations.
• Maintain high experimental rigor while troubleshooting process variability and performance issues.
• Work closely with Upstream Process Development, Analytical Development, QA, and Manufacturing teams.
• Provide DSP input during process integration, development planning, and cross-functional risk evaluations.
• Support alignment between upstream expression outcomes and downstream purification strategies.
• Author and review development protocols, study reports, SOPs, and technology transfer documents.
• Maintain accurate and traceable R&D documentation in alignment with GLP and cGMP expectations.
• Contribute to knowledge sharing, best practices, and continuous improvement initiatives within DSP.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Life Sciences, or a related discipline.
• 3–5 years of hands-on experience in downstream process development within an R&D environment.

Key Competencies

• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of protein chemistry, stability, and degradation mechanisms.
• Hands-on understanding of chromatographic techniques including Affinity, IMAC, Ion Exchange (IEX), Hydrophobic Interaction (HIC), and Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC).
• Experience with clarification strategies, depth filtration, and membrane-based separations.
• UF/DF & Process Optimization: Practical knowledge of ultrafiltration/diafiltration operations, membrane selection, and process optimization approaches.
• Practical experience working with ÄKTA systems or equivalent chromatography platforms.
• Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DoE), process characterization, risk assessment, and lifecycle development concepts.
• Ability to interpret complex data sets, identify process trends, and troubleshoot variability.
• Designs DSP processes with scalability, robustness, and manufacturability in mind.
• Applies disciplined documentation practices aligned with GLP/cGMP expectations.
• Communicates effectively with upstream, analytical, QA, and manufacturing teams.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a India-first platform redefining how recombinant proteins are made.
• Lead a high-impact team in a fast-growing VC-backed biotech.
• Opportunity to work on patentable, globally relevant technologies.
• Contribute to a mission-driven company making protein production faster, cheaper, and greener.