Molecular Biology Scientist/Senior Associate Scientist

Company: Legend Biotech
Location: Philadelphia
Posted on: January 17, 2026

Job Description:

Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to treating, and one day curing, life-threatening diseases. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, we are developing advanced cell therapies across a diverse array of technology platforms, including autologous and allogenic chimeric antigen receptor T-cell, T-cell receptor (TCR-T), and natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy. From our three R&D sites around the world, we apply these innovative technologies to pursue the discovery of safe, efficacious and cutting-edge therapeutics for patients worldwide. Legend Biotech entered into a global collaboration agreement with Janssen, one of the pharmaceutical companies of Johnson & Johnson, to jointly develop and commercialize ciltacabtagene autolecuel (cilta-cel). Our strategic partnership is designed to combine the strengths and expertise of both companies to advance the promise of an immunotherapy in the treatment of multiple myeloma. Legend Biotech is seeking a Molecular Biology Scientist/Senior Associate Scientist as part of the Research & Early Development team based in Philadelphia, PA . Role Overview Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to treating, and one day curing, life-threatening diseases. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, we are developing advanced cell therapies across a diverse array of technology platforms, including autologous and allogenic chimeric antigen receptor T-cell, T-cell receptor (TCR-T), and natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy. From our three R&D sites around the world, we apply these innovative technologies to pursue the discovery of safe, efficacious and cutting-edge therapeutics for patients worldwide. Legend Biotech entered into a global collaboration agreement with Janssen, one of the pharmaceutical companies of Johnson & Johnson, to jointly develop and commercialize ciltacabta gene autolecuel (cilta-cel). Our strategic partnership is designed to combine the strengths and expertise of both companies to advance the promise of immunotherapy in the treatment of multiple myeloma. Legend Biotech seeks a motivated molecular biologist to join the Vector Biology team in Philadelphia, supporting lentiviral vector (LVV) design, construction, and functional evaluation, as well as engineered cell line development to enable CAR-T and other cell therapy programs. This role emphasizes reliable experimental execution, timely delivery of materials, and clear data communication. Key Responsibilities Execute viral vector plasmid and helper plasmid design and construction to support gene overexpression, knock-down, and knock-out studies (under guidance for Senior Associate Scientist; independently for Scientist). Perform routine cloning workflows and confirm constructs via restriction digest and sequencing analysis. Maintain accurate plasmid records including sequence files, maps, inventory/locations and support internal construct requests in partnership with other cross-functional teams. Generate and characterize engineered mammalian cell lines for stable vector production, single-cell cloning, cell engineering and basic characterization. Perform mammalian cell culture and transient transfection under BSL-2 conditions. Support small-scale vector production using suspension cell lines for early development activities. Execute molecular/cellular assays to evaluate vector performance using qPCR/ddPCR, ELISA/Western Blot, flow cytometry. Analyze data, summarize results, and present clear experiment conclusions, escalate issues and propose next steps to project leads. Adhere to BSL-2 biosafety standards and Legend policies, maintaining accurate and compliant electronic lab notebooks and documentation. Collaborate cross-functionally to support tech transfer activities as needed. Works from established protocols, identifies deviations and escalates promptly. Independently plans day-to-day execution within project goals, recommends optimizations and next experiments. Requirements Associate Scientist: B.S. with 2 years or M.S. with 0-2 years in Molecular Biology, Virology, Cell & Gene Therapy, Biochemistry, or related field. Scientist: M.S. with 3 years or Ph.D. with 0-2 years in a related field; hands-on molecular cloning and mammalian cell culture required. Hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques (cloning, plasmid prep, sequence analysis, construct verification). Experience with mammalian cell culture and transient transfection; familiarity with BSL-2 practices and documentation. Experience generating engineered cell lines (stable expression and/or CRISPR KO/KI) including cloning and basic screening (Scientist preferred). Exposure to viral vector production and/or viral vector workflows (LVV preferred). Experience with titering and functional readouts (e.g., transduction efficiency, gene expression). Experience with qPCR/ddPCR, flow cytometry, Western blot and ELISA for tittering and functional assays. Strong ELN documentation, sample tracking, and ability to follow protocols/SOPs with attention to detail. Adaptable to a fast-paced environment; effective prioritization, collaboration, and communication. CRISPR/Cas gene editing for KO/KI or multiplexed cell lines. Familiarity with viral vector process development concepts (upstream and/or downstream). Exposure to NGS for vector or genome characterization. Tech transfer and/or CMC documentation experience (nice to have). Organized and detail-oriented; able to manage multiple experiments/projects. Analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and implement improvements. Collaborative; able to work effectively within a team environment. Maintain accurate ELN, sample tracking, and inventory records. Clear written and verbal communication for documentation and data presentation. Li-JR1 Li-Hybrid The anticipated base pay range is $93,463 - $122,670 USD Benefits We are committed to creating a workplace where employees can thrive - both professionally and personally. To attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive industry, we offer a best-in-class benefits package that supports well-being, financial stability, and long-term career growth. Our offerings are designed to meet the diverse needs of our team members and their families, ensuring they feel valued and supported every step of the way. Highlights include medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with company match that vest fully on day one. Equity and stock options are available to employees in eligible roles. We offer eight weeks of paid parental leave after just three months of employment, and a paid time off policy that includes vacation days, personal days, sick time, 11 company holidays, and 3 floating holidays. Additional benefits include flexible spending and health savings accounts, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, legal assistance, and supplemental plans such as pet, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance. We also provide commuter benefits, family planning and care resources, well-being initiatives, and peer-to-peer recognition programs - demonstrating our ongoing commitment to building a culture where our people feel empowered, supported, and inspired to do their best work. Please note: These benefits are offered exclusively to permanent employees. Contract employees are not eligible for benefits through Legend Biotech. EEO Statement It is the policy of Legend Biotech to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state or local laws or ordinances. Employment is at-will and may be terminated at any time with or without cause or notice by the employee or the company. Legend may adjust base salary or other discretionary compensation at any time based on individual, team, performance, or market conditions. Legend Biotech maintains a drug-free workplace.

Keywords: Legend Biotech, Philadelphia , Molecular Biology Scientist/Senior Associate Scientist, Science, Research & Development , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania