Research Associate IV

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 hands‑on in the lab and requires strong technical execution, data organization, and clear communication with scientists, manufacturing personnel and cross‑functional 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 batch‑to‑batch consistency.
• Scale bioconjugation processes from research to pilot‑scale 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, SDS‑PAGE, ELISA, and fluorescence assays).
• Evaluate conjugate performance (binding, activity, stability, photophysics, specificity, etc.).
• Support QC method development and qualification.
  
  

Cross‑functional 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

Required

• B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Bioengineering, or related field.
• 4–8 years of relevant hands‑on lab experience (industry preferred).
• Practical experience with bioconjugation, purification, and biomolecule handling.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques such as HPLC, UV‑Vis, fluorescence, SDS‑PAGE, or CE.
• Strong organizational skills and clear written/verbal communication.
• Strong data analysis skills and experience running complex lab equipment.
  
  

Preferred

• Experience with assay development or QC methods.
• Experience supporting process development or scaling lab workflows.
  
  

Comfort working across multiple projects in a fast‑moving environment

At Bruker, base salary is part of our total compensation. The estimated base salary range for this full-time position is between $78 K and $125K provides an opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role.The base salary for the role will depend on a several job-related factors, including, but not limited to education, training, experience, the geographic location of the successful candidate, skills, competencies, job-related knowledge and travel requirements for this position. Full-time employees may also be eligible for a performance-related incentive in addition to a full range of benefits including 401(k) with company match, an employee stock purchase plan, medical and dental plans, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, employee assistance program and paid time off including vacation, sick time and holidays, and more.

Bruker is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Certain positions at Bruker require compliance with export control laws and as a result, all interviewed candidates for all positions will be screened pre-interview to determine their eligibility in light of export control restrictions.