2027 Spring Co-Op GMU CMC Purification Process Development (Viral Vector)

Location: Waltham, Massachusetts, United States; onsite. Must be able to relocate to the office and work 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, for the full six-month co-op.

Salary: $27.00–$60.00 per hour

Company

hirify.global is an R&D-driven, AI-powered biopharmaceutical company developing medicines and vaccines through immune-system research and healthcare innovation.

What you will do

• Design, execute, and analyze viral vector purification experiments.
• Perform analytical characterization of samples and interpret experimental results.
• Collaborate with vector and cell line engineering, upstream process development, analytics, and clinical manufacturing functions.
• Present findings, contribute to technical reports, and support external publications when appropriate.
• Learn and apply new laboratory techniques while working independently and with cross-functional partners.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a PhD, MS, or BS in biological sciences, genetic engineering, or engineering sciences with relevant study experience.
• Must be permanently authorized to work in the United States without current or future employment visa sponsorship.
• Must remain enrolled at an accredited college or university throughout the co-op.
• Understanding of cell engineering, molecular biology, virology, and immunology concepts.
• Ability to work in Biosafety Level 2 laboratories, follow safe procedures, and maintain good laboratory practices and detailed laboratory documentation.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative, cross-functional environment.

Nice to have

• Experience with viral vector purification and characterization, protein characterization, high-throughput experimentation, engineering, or data analysis.
• Knowledge of chromatography, tangential flow filtration, normal flow filtration, viral clearance and inactivation, or advanced analytical tools.
• Experience with SEC-HPLC, DLS, ddPCR/qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, FACS, immunoassays, spectroscopic methods, or bioassays.
• Experience with AKTA chromatography systems, high-throughput liquid handlers, automated filtration instruments, NanoSight 3000, Caliper LabChip GXII, MADLS, or ForteBio Octet.
• Understanding of Quality by Design and ability to apply design of experiments to downstream development.

Culture & Benefits

• Six-month co-op with mentoring and guidance from experienced leaders.
• Opportunity to contribute to real projects in genomic medicine and next-generation gene therapy manufacturing.
• Access to modern laboratory tools, digital innovation, and continuous learning.
• Supportive, collaborative, and future-focused work environment.