Sr Research Associate

Sr. Research Associate, Process Development Downstream

Kelly® Science & Clinical is seeking a Sr. Research Associate, Process Development Downstream for contract-to-hire position at a cutting-edge client in Tustin, California
. If you're passionate about bringing the latest scientific discoveries to life and are ready to take the next step in your career.

Pay: $35 – $43/hour

Schedule: Monday – Friday | Full-Time Onsite

Overview

Our Client is an industry-leading company that's leading the way in clinical and commercial biologics contract development and manufacturing (CDMO), focused on creating innovative solutions to meet the needs of clients and improve patient outcomes.

In this role, you will provide laboratory support for Process Development by leading downstream process and/or method development activities. You will serve as a subject matter expert and technical lead, supporting client programs from early development through commercialization. You will work with monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and related biologics across chromatography, filtration, buffer formulation, scale-up, and technology transfer — all within a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) and/or technical lead for downstream process development and purification of monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and related biologics, including buffer formulation and preparation, chromatography process development and optimization, filtration development, and routine process execution
• Lead downstream process development studies
  , including chromatography screening, process optimization, and scale-up activities to support client programs from early development through commercialization
• Perform and oversee in-process and routine analytical testing to support downstream development activities, including protein concentration determination (A280), HPLC-based assays, and other relevant analytical methods
• Independently execute downstream unit operations using chromatography systems, filtration equipment, and associated process analytical tools with minimal supervision
• Support process scale-up, technology transfer, and manufacturing operations by developing robust buffer preparation strategies and downstream processing workflows suitable for pilot and GMP manufacturing environments
• Compile, analyze, interpret, and present experimental data
  ; author technical reports, development summaries, protocols, and client-facing documentation; present findings during internal project reviews and client meetings
• Lead troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process performance, robustness, productivity, and scalability
• Contribute to the evaluation, implementation, and validation of emerging technologies
  , process analytics, laboratory automation platforms, and process intensification strategies to improve development efficiency
• Apply experience with laboratory automation, process intensification, process analytical technologies (PAT), high-throughput process development, and data analytics (highly desirable)
• Mentor junior scientists and provide technical guidance across downstream process development activities
• Perform other duties and project-related responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 3–4 years of relevant biopharmaceutical industry experience,
  or a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, or a related field
• Strong understanding of downstream processing principles
  , experimental design, data analysis, and bioprocess development methodologies
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, performance-based bonuses, paid time off, and opportunities for career growth and development in a supportive and inclusive work environment