Software Guidance & Assistance, Inc., (SGA), is searching for a Scientist 1 (Protein Expression and Purification) for a contract assignment with one of our premier Pharmaceutical services clients in South San Francisco, CA .

Responsibilities :
The departments of BioMolecular Research and Structural Biology, within the Protein Sciences organization at the firm are looking for a versatile, dynamic, self-motivated individual to join us as a Scientist 1. The selected individual will contribute towards recombinant protein expression and purification efforts to support drug discovery activities. This role will facilitate expression analysis of novel protein encoding constructs, by building, developing and utilizing automated high throughput processes for expression, purification and characterization for research and portfolio projects. The qualified candidate must be technically strong, self-driven, passionate about science, results and detail oriented. In this collaborative role, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with other scientists and group leaders within and outside our department to fulfill protein production needs.

• Protein purification using a variety of chromatographic techniques (affinity, size exclusion, ion exchange) for structural and biochemical studies.
• Screening and optimizing expression and purification of challenging membrane proteins using detergent lysis.
• Using various expression platforms such as E.coli, insect cells (BEVS), and mammalian expression platforms for small and medium scale protein production.
• Performing SDS-PAGE, western blot, protein characterization assays by different biophysical and biochemical methods.
• Operating and maintaining High performance liquid chromatography systems (HPLC) for protein purification and analysis.
• Performing gel analysis, capturing and interpreting data, uploading results to LIMS databases and sharing with stakeholders.
• Communicating with and presenting to collaborators and stakeholders across the Protein Sciences organization.

Required Skills :

• Applicants with a Master's degree in the Biological Sciences should have at least 3-4 years of scientific experience and applicants with a PhD degree (Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology) should have at least 1-2 years of relevant experience.
• Strong protein purification expertise in affinity and size exclusion chromatography.
• Strong aseptic cell culture techniques for handling routinely insect and mammalian cells.
• Ability to think critically, analyze results, plan experiments and carry out troubleshooting as needed.
• Strong desire to learn new techniques, advance technologies related to protein optimization and interest in implementing new expression systems.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in a team-oriented setting.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.

Preferred Skills :

• Expertise with automation and high-throughput process development will be a plus.

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.