Protein Purification & Expression Biochemist

Protein Purification & Expression Biochemist – San Diego, CA

Cogent Scientific, an insourced contract research organization, is seeking a Protein Purification & Expression Biochemist to join our San Diego team. The role supports our mission to accelerate discovery and innovation in the life sciences.

Key responsibilities include high‑throughput purification of recombinant proteins, protein expression in mammalian and non‑mammalian cell lines, accurate data entry into LIMS, inventory management, and collaboration with cross‑functional teams to generate target proteins for drug discovery.

• High‑throughput purification of recombinant proteins using standard chromatographic methods and automated parallel processing systems.
• Experience with batch binding purification, AKTA chromatography system, and affinity (Nickel, FLAG, GST, Strep, MBP, etc.), ion exchange, and size exclusion chromatography.
• Experience with ultrafiltration/diafiltration/tangential flow filtration devices (e.g., AKTA Flux) is desirable.
• Analysis of protein purity by SDS‑PAGE gel electrophoresis and western blotting.
• Quantitation of protein concentration by Bradford assay and UV spectroscopy.
• Antibody purification experience preferred; membrane protein biochemistry experience is a plus.
• Protein expression in both mammalian and non‑mammalian cell lines; transfection and expression in various cell lines.
• Accurate and timely entry of experimental data into LIMS and electronic laboratory notebooks.
• Storage, retrieval, and shipping of protein samples using Microsoft Excel, barcodes, and LIMS; inventory management experience is desirable.
• Work closely with cross‑functional colleagues and project teams to generate appropriate target proteins for drug discovery.
• Effective interaction with team members to address technical challenges.

Required qualifications:

• BS/MS degree in Biological Sciences (or related field).
• 6 months to 1 year laboratory experience in industry or academia.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, LIMS, and ELNs.
• Organized, effective at multi‑tasking, and able to run several purification experiments simultaneously.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, self‑motivation, and capability to work independently while contributing to a team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; team player mentality required.
• Enthusiastic, detail‑oriented, adaptable, and able to operate effectively in a fast‑paced multidisciplinary environment.

Benefits include competitive pay, relocation bonus as needed, medical/dental/vision insurance, 401(k), parental leave, PTO, paid holidays, and an exciting work environment.

The job posting will close by February 28th 2026 or when candidates are identified, whichever comes first.