Tangential flow filtration (TFF) offers the opportunity to address some of the challenges facing the downstream purification of AAV. This project will focus on developing a TFF step to clarify and concentrate the post-production reactor lysate. Concentration allows for higher resin utilization in subsequent chromatography steps, faster cycle times and reduced buffer requirements, all of which positively impact overall process sustainability and economics. TFF is a highly scalable unit operation widely used in the production of therapeutic proteins currently which contributes to its suitability for this purpose. Hurdles facing the application of TFF in this area include membrane fouling, product recovery and stability and complex optimization landscapes due to high degrees of interdependency between material attributes and process parameters.

The project’s overall goal is to develop a robust, model-supported framework that optimizes the TFF unit operation for AAV clarification and concentration pre-chromatography. By delivering a clarified, concentrated AAV process stream, the project aims to demonstrate a practical pathway for large-scale commercial manufacturing, improving process efficiency, sustainability and economics.

Eligible candidates:

• Hold (or are soon to hold) a primary degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline e.g. chemical / biochemical engineering, biotechnology etc.
• Are motivated, curious and enthusiastic with an excellent academic record.
• Have the ability to work independently and part of a team.

If interested in applying, please complete the application form here in addition to the Rinn Centre’s Expression of interest form here by 15/Aug/2026.

Tangential flow filtration (TFF) offers the opportunity to address some of the challenges facing the downstream purification of AAV. This project will focus on developing a TFF step to clarify and concentrate the post-production reactor lysate. Concentration allows for higher resin utilization in subsequent chromatography steps, faster cycle times and reduced buffer requirements, all of which positively impact overall process sustainability and economics. TFF is a highly scalable unit operation widely used in the production of therapeutic proteins currently which contributes to its suitability for this purpose. Hurdles facing the application of TFF in this area include membrane fouling, product recovery and stability and complex optimization landscapes due to high degrees of interdependency between material attributes and process parameters.

The project’s overall goal is to develop a robust, model-supported framework that optimizes the TFF unit operation for AAV clarification and concentration pre-chromatography. By delivering a clarified, concentrated AAV process stream, the project aims to demonstrate a practical pathway for large-scale commercial manufacturing, improving process efficiency, sustainability and economics.

Eligible candidates:

• Hold (or are soon to hold) a primary degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline e.g. chemical / biochemical engineering, biotechnology etc.
• Are motivated, curious and enthusiastic with an excellent academic record.
• Have the ability to work independently and part of a team.

If interested in applying, please complete the application form here in addition to the Rinn Centre’s Expression of interest form here by 15/Aug/2026.