Retro develops therapies for diseases driven by the biology of aging. We focus on cellular reprogramming and autophagy to rejuvenate cell and tissue function with the ultimate aim of adding 10 years to healthy human lifespan. We're building a mission-driven team of accomplished and kind individuals who embrace our startup culture of rapid iteration, transparency, and versatility. We are hiring someone to lead our Bioreactor Systems efforts and expand Retro's capabilities and speed of iteration working with bioreactor systems. In this role, you will lead, and also actively participate in, the development of robust, closed, scalable bioreactor systems for automated culture of iPSC-derived cells under cGMP conditions. You will report to the CEO. About you: You are an experienced bioengineer with a strong background in developing and scaling bioreactor systems for cell culture applications. You excel at collaborating with research teams to understand their prototypes and processes, and can effectively translate their innovations into consistent and reliable manufacturing solutions. You bring with you a consistent track record of successfully transforming prototype systems into closed, production-ready platforms, ideally within cGMP environments. You thrive in environments that embrace rapid iteration and open, straightforward communication.
\n In this role, you will: Be a hands-on leader; lead a high-performing team and provide technical mentorship while also making significant contributions as an individual. Ensure alignment between Retro's strategic goals and day-to-day execution of the team.Develop and scale closed bioreactor systems for perfusion-based culture of iPSC-derived cells.Transition prototype bioreactor designs into robust, production-ready systems suitable for cGMP manufacturing.Optimize processes to enhance efficiency, reliability, and reproducibility of cell culture operations.Ensure bioreactor systems and processes comply with regulatory requirements and standards for cGMP conditions.Implement process control strategies and monitoring systems to maintain optimal cell culture environments.Work cross-functionally with research and process development to integrate bioreactor systems into existing workflows.Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to bioreactor operations and automation.Document processes, protocols, and system designs to support regulatory submissions and internal knowledge sharing.Implement new ideas and integrate modifications to existing bioreactors/processes to achieve the desired results. You might thrive in this role if you:Have 8+ years of industry experience developing and scaling bioreactor systems for cell culture, preferably with iPSC-derived cells. Are proficient in automation technologies and process control systems used in bioreactor operations.Have worked under cGMP conditions and have some understanding of regulatory requirements (eg 21 CFR Part 11) for cell therapy manufacturing.Have working experience with closed manufacturing systems, tube welding, and aseptic connectors.You're energetic, detail-oriented, intellectually curious, and deeply pragmatic. Have a burning desire to understand aging biology through the lens of modern data-rich measurement technologies. Bonus points if you:Have used Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies for process optimization.Have experience working with the PBS Vertical Wheel Bioreactor systems.
\n$140,000 - $180,000 a year
Total compensation also includes generous equity and benefits including: - Medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family - 401(k) plan with 4% matching - Flexible time off and 10 company holidays per year - Paid parental leave - Annual learning & development stipend - Daily Retro-sponsored lunch and snacks \nWe take pride in cultivating an environment that fosters collaboration, open communication, and authenticity. We believe that great results are best delivered by a highly creative team working in concert. We are an equal opportunity employer; we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We are diverse in background and singular in mission.