Associate Scientist (Conjugations) (San Carlos)

The Associate Scientist will support the research and development of a novel bacterial polysaccharide conjugate vaccine. Specifically, this role will contribute to the setup, synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization of chemically modified polysaccharides and polysaccharide-protein conjugates.

This is a 12-month contract based in San Carlos, CA.

Responsibilities

• Set up, optimize, and troubleshoot multi-step syntheses of protein-polysaccharide conjugates using click-chemistry and other related chemistries.
• Purify polysaccharides and conjugates using a variety of methods, including dialysis, FPLC chromatography, and tangential flow filtration (TFF).
• Characterize protein/polysaccharide/conjugates using different analytical methods, including SDS-PAGE gel, Western blotting, ELISA, HPLC, SEC-MALS, colorimetric and dynamic binding assays, et al.
• Apply Design of Experiments (DoE) principles; design, execute, and interpret statistically modeled experiments using DoE software.
• Proactively contribute scientific ideas, experimental strategies, and process improvements.
• Independently review and summarize relevant scientific literature to inform experimental design.
• Maintain highly organized records and Benchling entries to enable optimization and assessment of reproducibility.
• Analyze, interpret, and clearly communicate experimental data, including identifying trends, anomalies, and recommending next steps.
• Execute established protocols with limited oversight, demonstrating strong technical proficiency.
• Support team in routine laboratory activities and instrument maintenance.

Qualifications

• BS. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field or a related discipline, with minimum 2 years of relevant industry experience. MS without experience; or equivalent work experience.
• Strong understanding of underlying scientific concepts, process development, and analytical assay principles.
• Extensive hands-on experience in purification methods such as diafiltration, depth filters, and TFF (required).
• Prior hands-on experience in the conjugation process development is highly desirable.
• Proficiency with common protein/polysaccharide/conjugates analytical techniques, including SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, ELISA, HPLC, and SEC-MALS, is required.
• Proven track record of developing scalable processes suitable for the pharma/Biotech industry.
• Experience with vaccines, carbohydrates, or protein is a plus.
• Attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to contribute to the overall lab management, including organization of vendors, service contracts, and equipment maintenance.
• Demonstrated success working in a cross-functional team environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with excellent written and verbal communication skills

Salary

• $106,080-$116,480

Why Choose R&D Partners?

As an employee, you have access to a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical insurance – PPO, HMO & HSA
• Dental & Vision insurance
• 401k plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Long-term disability
• Weekly payroll
• Expense reimbursement
• Online timecard approval

R&D Partners is a global functional service provider and strategic staffing resource specializing in scientific, clinical research & engineering. We provide job opportunities within major pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies.

R&D Partners is an equal-opportunity employer.