CTL Specialist

The CTL Specialist routinely performs manual and automated cell processing, cell expansion and other assays in dedicated lab space, clean room environments or process development labs. The Cellular Therapy Laboratory develops and manufactures novel cell therapy products for clinical trials and to treat patients diagnosed with otherwise incurable diseases. This position leads the training of new staff.,Minimum Education
Bachelor's degree in basic science or a related field. (Required)
Master's degree in biology or a related field. (Preferred)
Minimum Work Experience
4-5 years of experience in a clinical lab or GMP/GLP setting. (Required)
1 year Supervisory experience. (Preferred)
Required Skills/Knowledge
Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
Ability to bend, stretch, climb ladders, stand for long periods of time, etc.
Knowledge of manufacturing cellular therapy products, aseptic processing, cell-based assays such as flow cytometry and Elispot assays and/or release testing.
Strong computer skills.
Ability to work and collaborate with others.
Ability to wear all PPE, including facemasks, lab coveralls, shoe covers and hair bonnets.
Ability to follow procedures/policies and adhere to all documentation requirements.
Required Licenses and Certifications
Medical Laboratory Scientist certification, MT (ASCP) (Preferred)
Functional Accountabilities
Responsible Conduct of Research
Consistently demonstrates adherence to the standards for the responsible conduct of research.
Plans, conducts and manages research projects within federal and institutional regulations and policies under the direction of the principal investigator.
Uses research funds and resources appropriately.
Maintains confidentiality of data as required.
Meets all annual job-related training and compliance requirements.
Job Functions
Communicates effectively with management for any processing, product/assay development or equipment issues.
Assists with development and implementation of new CTL protocols.
Assists with coordination of logistics, including purchasing and shipping of miscellaneous equipment and products.
Participates in the management and operation of the lab.
Demonstrates independent ability to conduct scientific projects related to product manufacturing or product development.
Performs assays such as epitope mapping, immunofluorescence and IHC in addition to release testing assays.
Handles instruments required for assays.
Takes an active part in the optimization and validation of protocols.
Performs cell manipulation/evaluation procedures such as stem cell and/or cellular product cryopreservation, cell enrichment and/or purging, cell evaluation and sorting, cell culture and cell product thaw/wash and infusion.
Performs calculations for infusion cell doses, viabilities, dilutions and cell concentrations; manages aseptic handling of products.
Performs procedures and maintains accurate documentation in compliance with regulations.
Follows procedures/policies implemented by study sponsors and adheres to all defined processing and documentation requirements.
Maintains knowledge regarding donor evaluation, screening and testing, labeling and product acceptability and release criteria.
Works as part of a team to execute CTL operations in close collaboration with materials management, quality control, quality assurance and scientific leads.
Willing to accept temporary responsibilities outside of initial job description.
Anticipate and responds to customer needs; follows up until needs are met
Teamwork/Communication
Demonstrate collaborative and respectful behavior
Partner with all team members to achieve goals
Receptive to others’ ideas and opinions
Performance Improvement/Problem-solving
Contribute to a positive work environment
Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to change
Identify opportunities to improve clinical and administrative processes
Make appropriate decisions, using sound judgment
Cost Management/Financial Responsibility
Use resources efficiently
Search for less costly ways of doing things
Safety
Speak up when team members appear to exhibit unsafe behavior or performance
Continuously validate and verify information needed for decision making or documentation
Stop in the face of uncertainty and takes time to resolve the situation
Demonstrate accurate, clear and timely verbal and written communication
Actively promote safety for patients, families, visitors and co-workers
Attend carefully to important details - practicing Stop, Think, Act and Review in order to self-check behavior and performance