VIDO
Aseptic BioManufacturing Intern (6 month term)
Description
The Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), Canada’s Centre for Pandemic Research, is a world leader in infectious disease research and vaccine development for humans and animals. Located at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Canada, VIDO is home to one of the largest and most advanced containment level 3 facilities in the world. To strengthen the preparedness for emerging infectious diseases we are currently expanding our infrastructure to include containment level 4 capacity, a GMP vaccine manufacturing facility, and a new animal housing facility. Our vision includes having the capacity to study any emerging disease in any animal model embracing a One Health approach to prevent emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in humans and animals.
We are seeking an Aseptic BioManufacturing Intern (6 month term) to join our team. Reporting to the Team Lead, Aseptic BioManufacturing Specialist, the Aseptic BioManufacturing Intern is responsible for conducting both large-scale upstream production and downstream bioprocessing of bacterial, cell culture, and viral-based vaccines within VIDO’s new Vaccine Development Centre. As experienced and seasoned operators, Aseptic BioManufacturing Interns are responsible for the day-to-day operation, calibration, and routine maintenance of the regulated manufacturing facility in accordance with Batch Records and SOPs.
This 6 month internship will allow the selected candidate the opportunity to observe, learn, and participate in large-scale sterile fermentation as well as the ongoing commissioning and validation of this new facility under the guidance of a senior BioManufacturing Specialist.
Qualifications
· Diploma in Biotechnology, biological sciences or related discipline
· Excellent aseptic technique and strong background in microbiological, molecular biology, and biosafety practices
Knowledge and Skill Requirements
· Excellent aseptic technique and strong background in microbiological, molecular biology, and biosafety practices
· Willingness to learn the theory, concepts, and regulations behind biopharmaceutical technology and processes
· Willingness to learn how to work within regulated quality systems, including complying with SOPs and accurately executing cGMP batch records
· Strong aptitude for learning new processes and techniques
· Strong interpersonal communication and group skills including team building and conflict management
· Ability to work in a small cross-functional multi-disciplinary team within a multi-product, multi-use CDMO facility
· Ability to work in a self-motivated but directed and collaborative fashion
· Strong mechanical aptitude
Work Environment, Physical Demands, and Safety Considerations
Work is a combination of a typical office environment, scientific laboratories, and large-scale GMP Manufacturing Facility. Movement is required throughout the VIDO facility to perform duties, as is sustained use of a computer screen when doing detailed work. Duties will include some altered work schedules outside of normal working hours to coincide with batch processing times.
Other conditions include:
· Must be willing to be vaccinated/blood tested for antibody titer for products manufactured within the facility, if required.
· Work in environments with large mechanical equipment, piping and pumps serviced by high-pressure steam, water, and air.
· Work with hazardous materials and chemicals, including biosafety level 2 organisms.
· Must be willing to safely lift static weights up to 20 kg.
· Work requires environment-specific gowning such as safety glasses, face masks or respirators, hairnets, laboratory coats, smocks, bunny suits, gloves, and steel toe shoes.
· No makeup or jewellery can be worn when working in cleanroom environments.
Status: Term - 6 months
Employment Group: Non-Union
Shift: Monday - Friday, 7.5 hours per day (37.5 hours per week), with ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php#Howtoapplyforaposition
Facility Access Screening including Criminal Record Check: Yes
Driver's License and Abstract Check: Not Applicable
Education/Credential Verification: Yes
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable
Interested candidates are asked to submit their application including a cover letter, CV, and the names of three references online.
Review of applications will begin immediately; however, applications will be accepted and evaluated until the position is filled. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
For more information visit: vido.org
Note: The University believes equity, diversity, and inclusion strengthen the community and enhance excellence, innovation and creativity. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.