ApTask Global Workforce (AGW) is seeking an Associate Scientist II for a pharmaceutical client. This is an onsite position located in South San Francisco, CA with a 6+ month contract. Summary: We are seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to join the Lab Automation Team for the Antibody Discovery group at a leading Pharmaceutical Company. This role will directly contribute to an innovative program focused on modernizing and automating antibody discovery workflows. The successful candidate will support and optimize hybridoma-based antibody generation workflows using advanced laboratory automation equipment and will design, automate, and execute cell and protein-based screening and characterization assays.
Key Responsibilities: - Design, implement, and validate automated methods for high throughput antibody screening and characterization to assess binding and functional attributes
- Perform general laboratory research competently and independently, modifying and troubleshooting experimental design, methods, and instrumentation
- Support the expansion of high throughput screening (HTS) platforms, assay design, and the evaluation and integration of new technologies
- Implement automated liquid handling processes to support routine lab workflows, including protein normalization, serial dilution, cherry picking, and NGS library preparation
- Perform cell culture on a variety of cell types to support characterization of antibodies and related biologics
- Independently analyze and interpret experimental results, placing findings in the proper scientific context
- Document, summarize, and report data clearly and accurately, including preparation of presentations for team and project meetings
- Work on multiple projects in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team environment, collaborating effectively with cross-functional partners
Requirements: - Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline with 3-5 years of relevant experience; Advanced degrees with relevant experience also considered
- Strong, hands-on experience with binding assays, such as ELISA and flow cytometry/FACS
- Proven experience with automated liquid handling platforms (e.g., Hamilton Microlab STAR) and robotic arms or similar automation technologies
- Demonstrated experience with immunoassays and antibody functional characterization
- Strong experience with mammalian cell culture techniques, including maintenance, expansion, and assay-ready cell preparation
- Experience independently planning experiments, troubleshooting, and managing multiple concurrent laboratory tasks or projects
Desired skills: - In-depth knowledge and experience with high throughput screening (HTS), including assay miniaturization and optimization
- Familiarity with multiple microplate readers (e.g., SpectraMax, EnVision, CLARIOstar) and assay data acquisition
- Experience with programming or scripting (e.g., Python, SQL, Venus, Momentum) for data processing or workflow automation
- Proficiency with scientific data analysis software, such as GraphPad Prism, Spotfire, or Genedata
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Proven team player who can operate effectively in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environment
Pay range: up to $56.66 per hour
Only candidates available and ready to work directly as ApTask Global Workforce (AGW) employees will be considered for this position.
If you have the described qualifications and are interested in this exciting opportunity, apply today! ApTask Global Workforce (AGW) ApTask Global Workforce (AGW) is a certified Minority and Veteran workforce solutions company. AGW delivers operational, clinical, lab, and professional talent with a strong focus on healthcare and life sciences. The company supports clients with reliable staffing, program expertise, and a commitment to quality, speed, and consistent delivery.
Benefits of working with ApTask Global Workforce include: - Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Sick Pay (for applicable states/municipalities)
Our team stays close to the process and is here to guide you every step of the way. To learn more, please visit our website
ApTask Global Workforce is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.
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