Boqiao Song
Wakefield,MA
Summary
Scientist with hands-on experience in downstream bioprocess development, specializing in chromatography, filtration, and TFF for viral vector and plasmid DNA production. Strong track record in designing and optimizing purification processes, troubleshooting process deviations, and supporting scale-up. Experienced in cross-functional collaboration, process analytics, and data-driven decision making in biopharmaceutical development environments.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Scientist I
UCB Biopharma
Bedford, MA
10.2024 - Current
- - Designed and executed end-to-end downstream purification workflows for AAV vectors at scales up to 50 L, including clarification, affinity chromatography, anion exchange chromatography, TFF, and sterile filtration.
- - Developed and optimized AKTA chromatography methods by systematically evaluating parameters such as pH, salt concentration, flow rate, and loading density to improve yield, purity, and process robustness.
- - Applied Design of Experiments (DoE) using JMP to identify critical process parameters (CPPs) and establish optimal operating ranges for chromatography steps.
- - Investigated process deviations including yield loss and impurity carryover (e.g., host cell DNA/protein), performed root cause analysis, and implemented corrective and preventive actions.
- - Developed scalable plasmid DNA purification processes with a focus on endotoxin reduction strategies and consistency across batches.
- - Performed in-process analytics (Nanodrop, gel electrophoresis, data integration) to monitor product quality and guide process decisions.
- - Collaborated with upstream, analytical, and CMC teams to align process development with manufacturing requirements and support process readiness for scale-up.
- - Utilized Tecan automated systems for high-throughput screening of purification conditions, accelerating process development timelines.
Research Assistant (Co-op)
UCB Biopharma
Bedford, MA
01.2024 - 07.2024
- - Led plasmid DNA production and cloning workflows, including transformation, amplification, and purification, ensuring high-quality material for AAV production.
- - Performed QC assays such as gel electrophoresis, restriction digest, and sequencing analysis to verify plasmid integrity and identity.
- - Executed Nanopore NGS workflows, including library preparation and sequencing, followed by data analysis using Geneious and SnapGene.
- - Managed experimental data and sample tracking using Benchling and Benchling Insights, improving data organization and traceability.
- - Supported small-scale AAV production and purification workflows for transduction studies.
Research Assistant
Grosebeck Gene Therapy Center
Boston, MA
01.2019 - 07.2019
- - Performed plasmid purification and QC using restriction digest and gel electrophoresis to support AAV vector production.
- - Maintained and expanded mammalian cell cultures for transfection and viral production experiments.
- - Assisted in transfection and viral harvest workflows.
- - Organized lab inventory and tracked reagents to ensure uninterrupted experimental operations.
Education
Master of Science - Bioinformatics (Data Analytics)
Northeastern University
Boston, MA05-2024
Bachelor of Science - Psychology, Minor: Biology & Behavioral Neuroscience
Northeastern University
Boston, MA12-2021
Skills
- Chromatography process development (Affinity, Anion Exchange)
- AKTA system operation and method development
- Depth filtration and clarification
- Membrane filtration and sterile filtration
- Ultrafiltration / Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF)
- Process optimization and parameter screening
- Design of Experiments (JMP)
- Impurity removal techniques
- Endotoxin reduction
- Quality control analysis
- Process scale-up (bench to pilot scale)
- Cross-functional collaboration
Timeline
Scientist I
UCB Biopharma
10.2024 - Current
Research Assistant (Co-op)
UCB Biopharma
01.2024 - 07.2024
Research Assistant
Grosebeck Gene Therapy Center
01.2019 - 07.2019
Bachelor of Science - Psychology, Minor: Biology & Behavioral Neuroscience
Northeastern University
Master of Science - Bioinformatics (Data Analytics)
Northeastern University