---
title: 'Associate Director, PD Upstream at Forge Biologics'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/associate-director-pd-upstream-forge-biologics-columbus-g8zsm2b10ct3'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-10-29'
---

# Associate Director, PD Upstream at Forge Biologics

- **Company:** Forge Biologics
- **Location:** Columbus, OH
- **Posted:** 2026-10-26
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-10-29
- **Apply:** https://boards.greenhouse.io/forgebiologics/jobs/6230975004?gh_jid=6230975004

## Job description

Forge Your Future with Us:

At Forge Biologics, we believe in turning bold ideas into life-changing realities. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to enable access to life-changing gene therapies and help bring them from ideas into reality. We partner with scientists, physicians, biotech and pharma innovators, and patient communities — all united by one goal: improving lives. If you’re driven by purpose and excited to make a tangible impact, this is where your journey begins.

Our team works out of The Hearth, a state-of-the-art, 200,000-square-foot cGMP facility in Columbus, Ohio. Here, you won’t just watch innovation happen — you’ll be part of it. Whether you’re scaling AAV manufacturing, collaborating on cutting-edge therapies, or supporting complex technical projects, you’ll play a key role in bringing hope to patients with genetic diseases.

What sets Forge apart is our culture of H.O.P.E. We are hardworking, showing up each day with determination and grit. We are open, creating a space where ideas flow freely, and every voice is valued. We are purpose-driven, with every task directly tied to changing lives. And we are engaged, energized by the challenges we face and the milestones we achieve together.

At Forge, your growth matters. We’re committed to helping you expand your skills, take on new challenges, and develop your career through mentorship, hands-on learning, and opportunities for advancement. Our people are our greatest investment, and we’re proud to see team members grow with us.

If you’re ready to use your talent to help deliver hope to patients around the world, join us — and be part of something bigger than yourself.

About The Role:

The Associate Director will play a pivotal role in leading scientific and operational activities to support upstream process development for viral vector production. This position will manage a team of scientists and research associates to design, execute, and optimize upstream processes, ensuring robust scalability and technology transfer into GMP manufacturing. The ideal candidate will combine technical excellence with strong leadership and collaboration skills to drive innovation and efficiency in upstream development.

Responsibilities:

- Lead day-to-day operations of upstream process development, including experimental design, execution, and data interpretation for viral vector production (AAV and LV)
- Senior-level technical expert and upstream leader responsible for complex development initiatives
- Independently manages multiple programs or initiatives to a high degree of quality, ensuring technical excellence, scientific rigor, and regulatory alignment
- Manages and provides mentorship and coaching to scientists and associates, developing technical capabilities and reinforcing a culture of quality, safety, and continuous learning
- Sets technical strategy, ensures compliance with regulatory expectations and manufacturing readiness in collaboration with MS&T, QC, and GMP Manufacturing teams, and drives innovation in upstream process design
- Authors high-impact CMC documents, supports regulatory filings, and serves as a cross-functional lead in global program teams
- Influences team culture through scientific leadership, collaboration, and clear communication
- Partners with Downstream, Analytical, and Manufacturing teams to ensure successful process integration and technology transfer
- Oversee the development of scalable upstream processes, promoting innovation and process improvements aligned with company goals, and staying within timelines and budgets while maintaining scientific rigor and data integrity
- Serve as an SME for upstream operations, providing guidance on troubleshooting and optimization

Qualifications:

- Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field
- Proven expertise in mammalian suspension cell culture, transfection, and viral production at bench and pilot scales
- Strong understanding of DOE methodology and statistical data analysis
- Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills
- Prior experience supporting technology transfer to GMP manufacturing
- Experience managing junior team members
- Prior project management experience

Preferred Skills:

- Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field
- Experience with rAAV or lentiviral production platforms
- Familiarity with cGMP principles and regulatory expectations for biologics
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate in a cross-functional matrixed environment
- Experience managing senior team members

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

This position works in both a laboratory environment and typical office environment where the physical work demands will vary depending on the specific tasks and duties required of the job. The employee will be stationary (standing/sitting) for extended periods of time. Employees regularly wear personal protective equipment based on the task being performed. Must be able to work in a confined space, such as a clean room or laboratory environment. Ability to identify small details within the field of vision, distinguish between different colors, and accurately identify objects within a specific area.

Forge Biologics is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. Forge Biologics, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

We’ve Got You Covered:

At Forge Biologics, we believe our people deserve to be taken care of – in and out of the workplace. We’ve built a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to help you thrive, grow, and feel valued every step of the way:

Health from day one

- Health, dental and vision insurance start your first day – with 90% of premiums covered for you and your family.

Time to recharge

- A competitive paid time off plan – because rest fuels innovation.
- 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave so you can focus on family when it matters most.

Rewarding your impact

- Annual bonus opportunities for all full-time team members.
- 401(k) with company match to help you plan for the future.
- Special employee discounts, including childcare and dependent care savings.

## Your wellness, supported

- Onsite fitness facility at The Hearth.
- Mental health counseling and financial planning services through our Employee Assistance Program.
- Employer-paid short and long-term disability coverage to protect your peace of mind.

Fuel for your workday

- A fully stocked kitchen with free snacks and beverages – we keep you energized and ready for what’s next.

Grow with us

- Ongoing professional development resources, training, and mentorship programs to help you build your care and grow within Forge.

## About Forge Biologics

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Forge Biologics is a US-based gene therapy CDMO (Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization) that provides AAV-focused development, cGMP manufacturing, and analytical services to accelerate therapies from concept to commercial.
- **Entity Type**: Private (subsidiary of the Ajinomoto Group)
- **Headquarters**: Columbus, Ohio, USA
- **Founded**: Not publicly available
- **Founders**: Not publicly available – the company was founded by gene therapy developers, but specific names are not disclosed [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/about/)

## Core Business
- **Primary industry**: Gene therapy contract development and manufacturing (CDMO), with a singular focus on adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors.
- **Target customers**: Gene therapy innovators, including researchers, biotechnology companies, and pharmaceutical developers (B2B, from early discovery through commercial production).
- **Mission**: “To enable access to life-changing gene therapies by helping bring them from concept to reality” [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/about/)

## Products & Services
- **[The Hearth]**: 200,000+ sq. ft. cGMP facility with 20 custom-designed cGMP suites, bioreactors ranging from 50 to 5,000L, and dedicated space for future expansion – one of the largest AAV manufacturing sites in the world. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/facility/)
- **[FUEL™ Technology Platform]**: Includes novel technologies such as Ignition Cells™, pEMBR™ 2.0 Ad Helper, modified rep/caps, and advanced analytics for AAV characterization – designed to improve yield, speed, and quality. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/)
- **Development & Manufacturing Services**: End-to-end support from molecular development, product-specific process development, IND review, analytical development, and cGMP manufacturing for clinical and commercial supply. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/)
- **Quality & Regulatory Support**: A rigorous quality organization representing 30% of the team, divided into Quality Management (QA, systems, validation) and Quality Control (analytical, microbiology, environmental monitoring). [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/facility/)

## Market Standing
- **Valuation**: Not disclosed (private subsidiary of Ajinomoto Group)
- **Key Metric**: Total funding not applicable (subsidiary); however, over 60 clients have used Forge’s technologies, and more than 600 clients have been supported across all stages. The team numbers nearly 400 experts. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/about/)
- **Notable Investors/Partners**: Parent company Ajinomoto Group (global scale); strategic partnerships with Skylark Bio and Epicrispr Biotechnologies. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/)
- **Growth Signals**: 
  - My Green Lab® Certification earned in June 2026, highlighting sustainability leadership among global CDMOs. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/)
  - Designation as a Gene and Cell Therapy Hub in Columbus, Ohio, leveraging regional gene therapy innovation legacy.
  - 35+ batches manufactured to date, with ongoing scale-up for larger programs and indications.
  - 20 cGMP suites and bioreactors up to 5,000L indicate growing capacity. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/facility/)

## Competitive Advantages
- **Singular AAV focus**: Unlike multi-modal CDMOs, Forge is dedicated exclusively to AAV vectors, enabling deeper expertise, proprietary technology (FUEL™ platform), and optimized processes.
- **Purpose-built facility**: The Hearth is one of the largest AAV-dedicated cGMP manufacturing sites globally, with 20 suites and flexible bioreactor scales for seamless scale-up/down.
- **Quality-first culture**: 30% of the team is in Quality functions, ensuring rigorous compliance and reliability for clients.
- **Scientific & Manufacturing Advisory Board**: Independent industry leaders guide innovation and best practices. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/company/leadership/)
- **Subsidiary of Ajinomoto Group**: Access to global scale, scientific legacy, and commercial infrastructure.

## Strategic Focus
- **Scaling capacity**: Continued expansion of The Hearth to accommodate more programs and larger indications, with space for additional cGMP suites.
- **Technology leadership**: Advancing the FUEL™ platform to improve AAV manufacturing yield, purity, and speed.
- **Sustainability**: Integration of green lab practices (My Green Lab certification) as a differentiator.
- **Talent development**: Annual internship program to cultivate next-generation gene therapy scientists. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/careers/)
- **Strategic partnerships**: Deepening collaborations with gene therapy developers (e.g., Skylark Bio, Epicrispr Biotechnologies) to support novel therapies.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture**: Driven by values of HOPE – hardworking, open, purpose-driven, and engage. Described as a diverse, passionate team redefining gene therapy manufacturing. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/careers/)
- **Work Environment**: Flexible work environment offered, plus an onsite fitness facility & wellness center. The Hearth is designed with social hubs for connection and recharge. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/careers/)
- **Benefits**: Medical, dental & vision insurance; generous PTO; 401K match; paid parental leave; Employee Assistance Program; bonus for every position. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/careers/)
- **Recognition**: Forge has been named a “Best Place to Work” (recognition not further specified). [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/careers/)
- **Career Growth**: Nearly 400 employees; hands-on roles from science to operations; internship program for early talent. The company is growing rapidly.
- **Location**: Rooted in Columbus, Ohio – a region with strong gene therapy legacy, top talent, and ongoing investment. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/facility/)
- **Job Listings**: Open roles posted on [Greenhouse](https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/forgebiologics) – candidates are cautioned against recruitment scams; Forge never asks for money or sensitive data during applications.

## Sources
1. [forgebiologics.com](https://www.forgebiologics.com/) – Main website with overview, mission, technology, and partnerships.
2. [forgebiologics.com/about/](https://www.forgebiologics.com/about/) – Company background, mission, leadership, values (HOPE), and team size.
3. [forgebiologics.com/facility/](https://www.forgebiologics.com/facility/) – The Hearth facility details (200k sq ft, 20 suites, bioreactor scales, quality organization).
4. [forgebiologics.com/careers/](https://www.forgebiologics.com/careers/) – Benefits, culture, internship program, and work environment.
5. [forgebiologics.com/company/leadership/](https://www.forgebiologics.com/company/leadership/) – Leadership team with advisory board.
6. [linkedin.com/company/forge-biologics](https://www.linkedin.com/company/forge-biologics) – LinkedIn company page for verification of size and industry.
7. [job-boards.greenhouse.io/forgebiologics](https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/forgebiologics) – Official career portal (Greenhouse) for current job openings.

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