Research Associate I/II - Biologics Purification & Characterization (Temporary, 1-year contract; on-site in San Rafael, five days per week)
Position Summary
- Support biologics purification and analytical characterization, with a primary focus on enzymes and additional exposure to other therapeutic proteins, antibodies, and peptide-based modalities.
- Primarily laboratory-based role supporting multiple early-stage and exploratory research programs.
- Occasional basic instrument/equipment maintenance.
Duties & Responsibilities
Protein & Biologic Purification
- Purify recombinant enzymes and other therapeutic biologics (proteins, antibodies, peptides) using standard chromatography systems (e.g., AKTA Pure, AKTA Avant).
- Execute purification workflows:
- Affinity chromatography
- Ion exchange chromatography (AEX/CEX)
- Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC)
- Hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC)
- Desalting and buffer exchange
- Concentrate and perform buffer exchange using tangential-flow filtration (TFF) or centrifugal filtration.
- Prepare buffers and reagents per established protocols.
- Support routine equipment checks, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Analytical Characterization
- Perform assays to assess purity, identity, and concentration of biologics:
- SDS-PAGE, CE-SDS
- SEC-HPLC, RP-HPLC
- UV/Vis spectrophotometry
- Other established protein/peptide analytical methods as needed
- Execute established methods emphasizing data quality, reproducibility, and documentation.
- Assist with basic data analysis and communicate results to project teams.
General Laboratory Responsibilities
- Maintain accurate electronic and/or paper laboratory notebooks.
- Follow SOPs and document deviations with guidance.
- Communicate results/observations/progress updates clearly.
- Maintain a safe, clean, well-organized lab environment in compliance with safety standards.
Education & Experience
Research Associate I
- Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
- 0–2 years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience (academic or industry).
Research Associate II
- Bachelor’s degree with 2+ years relevant experience, or Master’s degree with 1–2 years relevant experience.
- Prior biologics purification experience (enzymes, proteins, antibodies, or peptides) strongly preferred.
- Experience with FPLC/HPLC and common protein analytical techniques highly desirable.
Desired Skills
- Familiarity with AKTA Pure/Avant or similar chromatography instrumentation.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and reliable documentation.
- Ability to follow established workflows and troubleshoot with guidance.
- Effective communication and collaboration.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office; data analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism, JMP) a plus.