Job Title: Associate Scientist II – Protein Sciences
Job Location: Foster City, CA (Onsite)
Job Duration: 18 months
Shift: Monday – Friday
Pay Range: $40.00 – $44.53/hr. on w2
 
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist (Contract) to support our Protein Sciences team. This individual will contribute as a hands-on laboratory scientist, executing protein production, purification, and analytical workflows that support multiple CAR-T and cell therapy programs.
This is a 100% bench-focused, individual contributor role. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists across Protein Science and Research to generate high-quality data and reagents, while contributing to efficient laboratory operations and experimental execution.
 
Key Responsibilities

• Protein Production & Purification
• Execute recombinant protein expression and purification workflows across multiple expression systems (e.g., mammalian cell culture, transient transfections)
• Perform protein purification using AKTA chromatography systems (affinity, SEC, ion exchange)
• Maintain cell cultures and support transfection workflows
• Analytical Characterization

 Perform biochemical and biophysical characterization of proteins and antibodies, including:

• SDS-PAGE and Western blot
• UPLC/HPLC-based purity assessment
• Binding assays (e.g., Octet/BLI)
• Document and summarize experimental data clearly to support team decision-making
• Protein Modification & Assay Support
• Perform antibody and protein conjugation workflows with appropriate analytical follow-up
• Prepare reagents and materials to support downstream functional assays (e.g., flow cytometry or cell-based assays in collaboration with Cell Biology partners)

 Lab Operations & Execution

• Maintain organized lab practices, including reagents, consumables, and shared equipment
• Ensure accurate experimental documentation in electronic lab notebooks and LIMS
• Follow established SOPs and contribute to maintaining reproducibility and data quality standards Collaboration
• Work closely with cross-functional partners to execute experiments aligned with defined protocols and timelines
• Communicate experimental progress and results effectively to project teams

 Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Protein Science, or related field
• 2–4+ years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience in academic or industry settings

 Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with recombinant protein expression and purification workflows
• Hands-on experience with AKTA systems and chromatography methods
• Familiarity with protein characterization techniques (SDS-PAGE, HPLC, BLI/Octet, etc.)
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and transfections
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality data generation and documentation
• Ability to follow protocols, troubleshoot at the experiment level, and work effectively in a fast-paced lab environment

 Key Characteristics for Success in This Role

• Strong hands-on bench execution skills
• High level of organization and reproducibility
• Ability to independently execute experiments with appropriate controls
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to support team priorities.

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