Senior Associate Scientist (HPLC)

We are hiring a Senior Associate Scientist to support the development of a robust process for conjugate vaccine development. The candidate will bring proficiency in conjugation techniques and advance the Conjugation Development team's wider goal through hands-on experimentation and analysis of vendor-supplied materials. Specifically, this will include synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization of polysaccharide-protein conjugates. With the training provided, the successful candidate will be expected to optimize and troubleshoot the synthesis and purification procedures independently with minimal guidance.

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

Responsibilities

• Generate conjugates using various conjugation techniques and purify them using size-exclusion chromatography and tangential flow filtration (TFF), among other methods.
• Design and execute process development experiments using Design of Experiments (DOE) with minimal guidance.
• Conduct analyses of vendor-supplied samples using colorimetric assays, gel electrophoresis, and liquid chromatography while strictly adhering to established SOPs.
• Review analytical assay data for accuracy and adherence to SOPs.
• Maintain good documentation practices for recording experimental plans and results in an electronic lab notebook and associated reports.
• Maintain organized records of the review status of notebook entries and analytical data.
• Participate in group meetings to present work, interpret data, and report results accurately.
• Support lab operations.
• Assist with instrument maintenance, including troubleshooting and ordering supplies.
• Track shipping details for vendor-supplied samples.
• Contribute to reports, certificates, and other documentation supporting process development.
• Collaborate effectively with team members and contribute to cross-functional activities.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with a minimum of 5 years of industry experience, or MS degree with a minimum of 3 years of industry experience.
• Other combinations of education and/or experience may be considered.
• Experience setting up and carrying out chemical reactions.
• Experience with protein conjugation reactions is a major plus.
• Experience with laboratory-scale protein purification methods such as dialysis, diafiltration, size-exclusion chromatography, and tangential flow filtration (TFF).
• Experience in an analytical development or quality control (QC) role is a plus.
• Prior experience running colorimetric assays is required.
• Prior experience with HPLC is required.
• Prior experience with SDS-PAGE is required.
• Direct experience operating Agilent HPLC using OpenLab/ChemStation software and/or Waters UPLC and Empower software for data acquisition and analysis is a plus.
• Critical thinking and ability to analyze data.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and record-keeping abilities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with team members.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to integrity, professionalism, and safety in all aspects of work.

Pay

• $56-$62/hr

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.