Scientist

Software Guidance & Assistance, Inc., (SGA), is searching for a Scientist for a contract assignment with one of our premier Pharmaceutical clients in Pleasanton, CA.

Responsibilities :
Pathology Biology & Integrated Analytics group (Pleasanton, CA) at the firm is seeking a highly motivated Scientist for molecular cloning, cell culture, FPLC purification and antibody engineering and characterization. The qualified candidate will join a team of scientists focused on monoclonal antibody development for IVD and CDx assay. This position will be actively participating in antibody development, engineering, production and characterization. Job function requires the ability to evaluate, summarize and report study results, make independent decision and collaborate with teams at multiple sites.

• Plans and/or manages smaller, less complex local projects (e.g. with moderate project management complexity, problem definition, and/or short to medium term implications).
• Participates in project teams across the R&D department and functional groups
• Can represent the Team Lead in project teams in his/her absence on instruction
• Ensures that quality standards are met and plans and coordinates the performance of tasks largely independently.
• Is aware of new developments in the field and refers to the possible use of these in diagnostics.
• Contributes to collaboration and close networking within the departments as part of R&D projects.
• Analyzes and interprets the R&D results largely independently and presents them to the relevant committees within their own function.
• Uses specified strategies to resolve problems and acts within defined guidelines.

Required Skills:

• MSc. but years of relevant experience is most important 5-10 years hands on exp
• Hard skills (Core Requirements):
  • Demonstrated experience with the end-to-end antibody development process, from molecular cloning through expression, purification, and biochemical/functional characterization.
  • Advanced proficiency in standard molecular cloning techniques (e.g., PCR, restriction/ligation, Gibson assembly) for subcloning antibody sequences into mammalian expression vectors.
  • Strong hands-on experience analyzing and manipulating antibody sequences, with a deep understanding of antibody architecture (VH/VL, CDRs, frameworks) and routine use of sequence analysis tools to support antibody engineering.
  • Hands-on experience expressing antibodies in mammalian systems (e.g., HEK293, CHO).
  • Demonstrated experience in antibody purification and characterization, including protein A/G-based purification (e.g., FPLC) and downstream analytical methods such as ELISA, SDS-PAGE, WB, HPLC and IHC.
• Hard skills:
  • Experience and in-depth knowledge in monoclonal antibody development and antibody engineering.
  • Proficiency in standard cloning techniques (e.g., PCR, restriction/ligation, Gibson assembly) for subcloning antibody sequences into mammalian expression vectors.
  • Familiarity with antibody sequences and sequence analysis software.
  • Significant experience with transient protein expression in mammalian cell culture systems (e.g., HEK293, CHO).
  • Experience with antibody purification and characterization (eg. FPLC purification, HPLC, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, WB, IHC).
  • Domain knowledge in oncology, immunology, or protein chemistry.
• Soft skills:
  • Strong work ethic and collaborative attitude.
  • Proven capacity to work effectively and positively in a small, tight-knit team, supporting colleagues and contributing to a shared goal.
  • Strong analytical skills to interpret complex experimental results and troubleshoot unexpected technical challenges.
  • Proactive approach to identifying potential project roadblocks and proposing solutions.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills with a deep commitment to working as part of teams and recognizing the strengths of everyone on the team.
  • Ability to clearly and concisely present complex data (written and verbal) to both scientific and non-scientific team members.
  • Ability to efficiently manage multiple tasks and pivot priorities as research needs evolve.
  • Demonstrates self-motivation and the initiative to drive the project forward independently.
  • Excellent organizational skills to manage laboratory resources, schedules, and deadlines effectively to ensure key milestones are met.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with laboratory automation and workflow optimization (e.g., automating cloning, expression, purification, or analytical assays).
• Ability to interpret structural data (PDB files) and relate it directly to experimental outcomes (e.g., binding, stability).
• Knowledge of biophysical characterization techniques (eg. DSC, DLS) to assess protein structural integrity and stability.
• Experience with computational protein engineering and antibody epitope modeling.
• Experience with advanced protein modifications analysis and their impact on function.
• Familiarity with formulation and stability studies for final antibody products.

SGA is a technology and resource solutions provider driven to stand out. We are a women-owned business. Our mission: to solve big IT problems with a more personal, boutique approach. Each year, we match consultants like you to more than 1,000 engagements. When we say let's work better together, we mean it. You'll join a diverse team built on these core values: customer service, employee development, and quality and integrity in everything we do. Be yourself, love what you do and find your passion at work. Please find us at .

SGA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of Race, Color, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Religion, National Origin, Disability, Veteran Status, Age, Marital Status, Pregnancy, Genetic Information, or Other Legally Protected Status. We are committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, and our services, programs, and activities. Please visit our company to request an accommodation or assistance regarding our policy.