Leader, Cell Manufacturing, Deeley Research Centre
BC Cancer
Victoria, BC
As per the current Public Health Order, full vaccination against COVID-19 is a condition of employment with PHSA as of October 26, 2021.
Reporting to the Scientific Co-director of BC Cancer’s Immunotherapy Program (the Immunotherapy Program) and working closely with other scientific, quality, and clinical leaders of the Immunotherapy Program and collaborating centers, the Leader will directly oversee the manufacturing of cellular therapies in the Conconi Family Immunotherapy Lab (CFIL) at the Deeley Research Centre. The Leader anticipates and facilitates the development, implementation and adoption of new technologies and process improvements. The Leader designs, conceptualizes, executes, interprets, and communicates research projects, technologies and cellular immunotherapy research ideas. The Leader provides strategic leadership in developing opportunities and multi-disciplinary collaborations in a complex research environment which includes provincial, national, and international researchers and research organizations. The Leader is responsible for managing human resources, developing, recommending and monitoring budgets, sourcing funding opportunities, and ensuring T cell research projects are met and aligned with the clinical goals of the Immunotherapy Program.
What you’ll do
Oversee the development, implementation, and manufacturing of existing and novel cellular immunotherapies with support from the Immunotherapy Program’s Medical & Scientific Co-directors. Ensures appropriate completion of all manufacturing components of laboratory operation including: standard operating procedures (SOP); validation documents; manufacturing records; reports of adverse events, accidents, management review reports, and deviations/variances; and corrective action plans. Works closely with leadership, quality systems team, and other stakeholders to ensure implementation and continuous compliance with quality standards (e.g., FACT, GMP, ISO, etc.). Collaborate with the quality systems team to prepare reports and materials for submission to regulatory agencies. Work with leaders of the Immunotherapy Program to evaluate emerging cellular therapy approaches and technologies. Collaborate internally with PHSA/BC Cancer researchers, and eternally with clinical and Point of Care (POC) sites elsewhere in Canada. Participate in the strategic planning processes of the Immunotherapy Program and related programs.
Initiate continuous improvement plans to optimize efficiency, advance the technical expertise of CFIL manufacturing staff, and revise/update relevant documentation (e.g., batch records, SOPs, CofAs, IQ/OQ/PQs, etc.) as needed. Ensure appropriate preventative maintenance program is in place at CFIL for manufacturing equipment and infrastructure.
Maintain scientific and technological expertise relevant to the goals and activities of CFIL and the Immunotherapy Program. Lead the preparation of peer-reviewed research articles, writes grants, and develops communication strategies for information sharing among collaborators and Immunotherapy Program stakeholders. Attend and present at local, national, and international meetings, as necessary. Open to perusing adjunct Associate Professor position with academic institutions (e.g., UVic or UBC).
Interface with clinical sites to schedule and manage immune effect or cell manufacturing runs. Oversee and forecast annual manufacturing operating budget and capital budget for CFIL. Work closely with project management, quality, operations and manufacturing teams to evaluate and recommend purchases of new equipment and instruments. Develop and maintain cost models for manufacturing activities and performs manufacturing capacity planning.
Manage the manufacturing team staff to ensure continuous operation of CFIL and to enable program growth. Conduct or oversee appropriate hiring, orientation, training, competency evaluation, and performance management. Maintain a high level of staff engagement and morale to ensure outstanding team performance and stable, long-term employee retention. Interface with clinical, quality, and manufacturing teams to coordinate manufacturing schedules taking into consideration facility/equipment repairs and staffing availably.
What you bring
A level of education, training, and experience equivalent to a PhD in a field relevant to cellular therapy with a background in T cell research, and ten (10) years of experience in a complex research environment including five (5) years in a leadership capacity including experience with budget development and staff management.
Previous experience working in a GMP regulated environment is considered a key asset.
You will also have demonstrated:
Ability to provide research program leadership in the field of cellular immunotherapy with expertise in the state-of-the-art cell manufacturing processes.
Expertise in the design, validation, and performance of quality management systems and quality control assays for cell therapy products.
Knowledge of regulatory and quality standards relevant to cell therapy-based clinical trials including Health Canada guidelines, GMP, and FACT.
Ability to undertake independent research including experience with research design, methodology and data analysis.
Superior writing and communication skills with competency in writing research reports or findings at a standard that exceeds the requirements of peer journals.
Ability to form and maintain collaborative relationships across multi-disciplinary, cross-organizational teams.
What we bring
Every PHSA employee enables the best possible patient care for our patients and their families. Whether you are providing direct care, conducting research, or making it possible for others to do their work, you impact the lives of British Columbians today and in the future. That’s why we’re focused on your care too – offering health, wellness, development programs to support you – at work and at home.
Join one of BC’s largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations – offering vast opportunities for growth and development.
Access to professional development opportunities through our in-house training programs, including +2,000 courses, such as our San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training course, or Core Linx for Leadership roles.
Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including municipal pension plan, and psychological health & safety programs and holistic wellness resources.
Annual statutory holidays (13) with generous vacation entitlement and accruement.
PHSA is a remote work friendly employer, welcoming flexible work options to support our people (eligibility may vary, depending on position).
Perks include access to fitness classes and discounts to 350 BC-wide recreational programs, travel, technology, car and bike sharing, and more.
Job Type: Regular, Full-time
Location: 2410 Lee Avenue, Victoria, V8R 4Z3
Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
Hours of Work: Monday to Friday; 08:30-16:30
Requisition # 120934
What we do
BC Cancer provides comprehensive cancer control for the people of British Columbia.
BC Cancer is part of the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA).
The Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) plans, manages and evaluates specialized health services with the BC health authorities to provide equitable and cost-effective health care for people throughout the province. Our values reflect our commitment to excellence and include: Respect people – Be compassionate – Dare to innovate – Cultivate partnerships – Serve with purpose.
Learn more about PHSA and our programs: jobs.phsa.ca/programs-and-services
PHSA and BC Cancer are committed to employment equity, encouraging all qualified individuals to apply. We recognize that our ability to provide the best care for our diverse patient populations relies on a rich diversity of skills, knowledge, background and experience, and value a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment.
ATTN: PHSA Employees:
To be considered as a PHSA employee (internal applicant) for this position, you must apply online via your internal profile at http://internaljobs.phsa.ca
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