Senior Research Associate

Job Title: Senior Research Associate V
Duration: 12 Months
Location: San Carlos, CA 94070

Job Description:

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Senior Research Associate to join the Protein Development and Clinical Manufacturing team. The role will focus on executing and maintaining plate-based analytical methods to measure protein concentration and quality for cell-free protein synthesis raw materials and in-process intermediates.

The candidate will be responsible for performing ELISA and Bradford assays, supporting method qualification, managing critical reagents, and applying analytical methods to process characterization studies. This is a hands-on, lab-based scientific role requiring independence, strong technical skills, accurate data generation, and thorough documentation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform sandwich ELISA and Bradford total protein assays on raw material lysates and in-process samples.

• Conduct additional protein analyses, including GFP activity assays, Capillary Western (Jess/Leo), and A280/SoloVPE.

• Perform method qualification studies, including accuracy, repeatability, and intermediate precision.

• Support drafting and revision of analytical test methods.

• Qualify and manage critical reagents, antibodies, reference standards, and assay controls.

• Maintain accurate experimental records using electronic lab notebooks such as Benchling.

• Troubleshoot instrumentation, assay variability, and test results.

• Analyze and present experimental data and results.

• Support high-throughput laboratory automation using liquid handling and robotic technologies, including Tecan EVO.

• Collaborate with scientists, train backup analysts, and support the development of analytical techniques.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• 10+ years of laboratory experience.

• BS in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field with at least 5 years of relevant industry experience; OR MS with at least 3 years of Pharma/Biotech industry experience.

• Strong understanding of analytical chemistry and biochemistry.

• Hands-on experience with plate-based immunoassays (ELISA) and protein assays (Bradford/BCA).

• Experience with method qualification or validation.

• Strong data analysis, interpretation, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.

• Knowledge of regulatory documentation and good documentation practices.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a laboratory environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with HPLC, CE-SDS, or Western blotting.

• Experience with liquid-handling automation and programming (Tecan or Biomek).

• Experience with laboratory robotics and high-throughput analytical methods.