Research Engineer, ATMF

Research Engineer, ATMF

The Advanced Therapeutics Manufacturing Facility (ATMF) is a new CFI-funded project and part of Canada’s Immuno-Engineering and Biomanufacturing Hub (CIEBH), a UBC-led national research hub that aims to align the critical mass of immune-engineering with biomanufacturing and public health strengths concentrated in BC. This multi-year, multi-phase initiative aims to build a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) biomanufacturing core facility to produce advanced therapeutics—such as cells, mRNA vaccines, and ancillary plasmid DNA—essential for early-phase clinical trials, addressing current health challenges, and strengthening Canada’s pandemic preparedness.

The Research Engineer – Process Development position aims to develop and facilitate the research being conducted at the ATMF. Specifically, the engineer in this position will conduct research and lead research projects to advance biomanufacturing technologies for various therapeutic products, including plasmids, mRNA/LNP formulations, CAR-T cells, regulatory T cells (T-regs), and viral vectors. This role involves designing and optimizing upstream and downstream processes, performing data analysis, developing robust manufacturing protocols, maintaining laboratory equipment, supporting technology transfer to GMP production environments, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. In some instances, the Engineer will also supervise junior staff who are conducting research. The Research Engineer will work with the ATMF Project Lead and staff to prepare reports and peer-reviewed publications, present research results at scientific conferences, to funding organizations, and other external stakeholders.

The position is based in a laboratory at the ATMF facility and pilot-scale laboratories. Travel will be required between multiple laboratory sites, including BCCHR, BC Cancer, and UBC Point Grey Campus.

The Research Engineer will report to the ATMF Project Lead – Dr. Megan Levings. Works in the Process Development lab with other research and technical staff. Supervises technical staff, overseeing the team conducting specific experiments in bioprocessing. Consults with ATMF staff and other UBC departments, universities, research institutes, vendors, and industry partners in the bioprocess design and selection.

Work Performed:

• Design experimental and analytical investigations related to bioprocess engineering of advanced therapeutic products and/or ancillary materials, including plasmids, mRNA-LNP, cell therapy products (T-regs/CAR-T), and viral vectors.
• Execute and optimize upstream (cell culture, transfection, fermentation) and downstream (purification, filtration, formulation) processes using specialized bioprocessing equipment.
• Conduct experiments, collate, and analyze data in a timely manner.
• Develop complex mathematical models for performing analytical assessments, including yield, purity, potency, and stability testing.
• Assess and implement bioprocess design alternatives.
• Complete complex design and scale-up calculations related to experimental work.
• Develop protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for bioprocess workflows.
• Evaluate and integrate new bioprocessing technologies and equipment to enhance efficiency and product quality.
• Work with equipment vendors and assist with installation, calibration, modification, maintenance and repair of bioprocessing equipment.
• Maintain detailed documentation following Good Documentation Practices (GDP) and contribute to regulatory submissions.
• Coordinate technology transfer to ATMF’s GMP laboratories, ensuring compliance with regulatory and quality requirements.
• Hire, train, and mentor junior staff and students in process development methodologies.
• Provide technical assistance and work closely with scientists, operations, engineers, and GMP manufacturing personnel to drive bioprocess innovations.

Consequence of Error/Judgement: The Research Engineer may have access to confidential data. The quality of work performed will determine the success of ATMF projects and funding. Exercising poor judgment and failing to consult appropriately with research team members and supervisors can adversely affect the viability and validity of ATMF’s projects or programs and may compromise UBC and the Department’s ability to secure grant-based funding for future ATMF projects. Supervision Received: The ATMF Project Lead will provide overall supervision of this role. However, the Research Engineer may take direction and feedback from senior members of the ATMF. It is important that the Research Engineer be capable of working independently within project objectives. Supervision Given: The Research Engineer will participate in the hiring, training, and supervision of junior process development staff and students and may provide guidance and direction to staff in carrying out experiments, protocol development, data analysis, or optimizing equipment.

Minimum Qualifications: Undergraduate degree in Engineering or Applied Science. Minimum of three years of related experience, or the equivalent combination of education and experience. Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own. Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Bioprocess/Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Expertise and hands-on experience with bioprocessing techniques and equipment, including bioreactors, depth filtration, chromatography and tangential flow filtration systems, and formulation.
• Strong analytical skills and experience with process design, characterization, and optimization.
• Experience in scaling up manufacturing processes from research to clinical-grade production.
• Knowledge of automation, process control, and high-throughput screening techniques.
• Ability to prepare clear, concise, and accurate research and technical reports and protocols.
• Experience in working with LIMS, electronic lab notebooks, and data management systems.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks such as Health Canada, FDA, and EMA guidelines for cell and gene therapies.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional weekends, evenings, and early mornings, as required.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative research environment.