Research Associate IV

Job Locations

US-WA-Seattle

ID

2026-19145

Job Function

Operations/Production

Overview

The Research Associate IV will support the Bruker Spatial Biology Manufacturing Science and Technology (MSAT) team in the development, optimization and sustaining of existing and novel functional assays, analytical methods and bioconjugation workflows. This role is handson in the lab and requires strong technical execution, data organization, and clear communication with scientists, manufacturing personnel and crossfunctional partners.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in chemistry and biology with strong attention to detail. Experience in process and assay development and designing stability and sustaining studies. Success in this role requires creativity and resourcefulness, strong collaboration, and the ability to work independently to reach fast-paced commercial timelines.

Responsibilities

**Key Responsibilities**

**Bioconjugation Chemistry**

• Design, optimize, and execute bioconjugation reactions using a variety of chemistries (e.g., NHS ester, maleimide-thiol, Click chemistry, enzymatic labeling, carbodiimide coupling, photoactivatable chemistries).
• Develop and evaluate linker strategies, surface coupling methods, and functionalization of biomolecules and nanoparticles.
• Troubleshoot reaction performance, stability, and batchtobatch consistency.
• Scale bioconjugation processes from research to pilotscale production.
  
  

**Process Development**

• Develop robust, reproducible, and scalable workflows for conjugation, purification, and formulation.
• Identify and optimize critical process parameters to support technology transfer and manufacturing readiness.
• Document processes in batch records, SOPs, and technical reports.
• Perform risk assessments, establish process controls, and support validation activities as needed.
  
  

**Assay Development & Characterization**

• Develop and optimize biochemical, biophysical, and analytical assays to characterize conjugates (e.g., HPLC, SEC, CE, UV-Vis, MS, SDSPAGE, ELISA, and fluorescence assays).
• Evaluate conjugate performance (binding, activity, stability, photophysics, specificity, etc.).
• Support QC method development and qualification.
  
  

**Crossfunctional Collaboration**

• Work closely with R&D, analytical teams, manufacturing, and product management to support new product development.
• Communicate findings through clear written reports and presentations.
• Represent the team in project meetings and contribute to technical strategy.
  
  

**Quality, Safety, and Documentation**

• Maintain accurate lab notebooks and documentation in compliance with internal quality systems.
• Follow safety guidelines for chemical handling, biological materials, and instrumentation.
  
  

Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

**Qualifications**

**Required**

B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Bioengineering, or related field.

• 4-8 years** of relevant handson lab experience (industry preferred).
  
  

Practical experience with bioconjugation, purification, and biomolecule handling.

Familiarity with analytical techniques such as HPLC, UVVis, fluorescence, SDSPAGE, or CE.

Strong organizational skills and clear written/verbal communication.