Sr. Research Associate

Senior Research Associate I Biologics Purification & Characterization
Location: San Rafael, CA
Schedule: Onsite, Monday Friday (5 days/week)
Duration: 12-Month W2 Contract (potential to extend / convert)
Pay Rate: $39-40/hour

About the Opportunity
Join a leading biotechnology organization dedicated to developing innovative therapies for individuals living with serious rare genetic diseases. This team is focused on advancing biologic drug discovery and development through cutting-edge research, scientific collaboration, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes.

Position Overview
The Therapeutics Process Development & Characterization team is seeking a Senior Research Associate I to support biologics purification and analytical characterization efforts across early-stage research programs. This is a hands-on laboratory role focused on purifying recombinant enzymes and other therapeutic biologics, including proteins, antibodies, and peptides.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience with protein purification using A KTA chromatography systems, analytical characterization techniques, and scientific data analysis. This individual should be detail-oriented, scientifically curious, and comfortable working independently while collaborating with cross-functional research teams.

Key Responsibilities
Protein Purification

• Independently perform purification of recombinant enzymes, proteins, antibodies, and peptide therapeutics.
• Operate A KTA Pure, A KTA Avant, or equivalent FPLC chromatography systems.
• Execute purification workflows including:
  • Affinity chromatography
  • Ion Exchange Chromatography (AEX/CEX)
  • Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC)
  • Hydrophobic Interaction Chromatography (HIC)
  • Desalting and buffer exchange
• Perform concentration and buffer exchange using TFF, UF/DF, or centrifugal filtration.
• Troubleshoot purification processes and recommend process improvements.
• Prepare buffers, reagents, and chromatography columns.
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of purification equipment.

• Perform analytical testing to evaluate biologic purity, identity, concentration, and quality using:
  • SDS-PAGE
  • CE-SDS
  • SEC-HPLC
  • RP-HPLC
  • UV/Vis Spectrophotometry
• Analyze experimental data using Graph Pad Prism, JMP, Excel, or similar software.
• Interpret results and communicate findings through technical summaries and presentations.
• Support analytical method development and technology transfer activities.

• Maintain accurate electronic laboratory notebooks and documentation.
• Follow SOPs and support compliance with laboratory quality standards.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment.
• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary research teams.

• Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 4 6 years of relevant industry experience, OR
• Master's degree with 2 4 years of relevant industry experience.
• Experience purifying recombinant enzymes, proteins, antibodies, or peptide therapeutics.
• Hands-on experience operating A KTA Pure, A KTA Avant, or equivalent FPLC chromatography systems.
• Experience with protein analytical techniques including SEC-HPLC, RP-HPLC, CE-SDS, SDS-PAGE, and UV/Vis spectroscopy.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience with Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) and Ultrafiltration/Diafiltration (UF/DF).
• Experience with electronic laboratory notebooks (Benchling or similar).
• Familiarity with Graph Pad Prism, JMP, or related scientific data analysis software.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining high-quality scientific documentation.