Associate Scientist

Associate Scientist - Protein Purification & Laboratory Operations

Location: South San Francisco, CA (100% Onsite)

Contract Duration: Initial 12-month contract with strong potential for extension up to 3 years based on project needs and budget approvals

Position Summary:

• We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to support membrane protein purification and laboratory operations within a collaborative research environment.
• This role is ideal for candidates with hands-on laboratory experience in protein purification, chromatography workflows, and analytical characterization techniques.
• The successful candidate will contribute to multiple research programs by executing established laboratory protocols, maintaining accurate experimental documentation, and supporting protein production and quality control activities.
• This is a fully onsite laboratory role requiring daily presence in South San Francisco.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform membrane protein purification workflows, including cell lysis and membrane pellet preparation
• Execute affinity chromatography using anti-FLAG, Strep-Tactin, and Ni-NTA purification systems
• Operate AKTA chromatography systems for protein purification processes
• Conduct SDS-PAGE, western blotting, spectrophotometry, and protein concentration assays
• Perform HPLC-based protein quality control and analytical characterization
• Prepare buffers, reagents, and laboratory samples according to established SOPs
• Maintain accurate experimental records, laboratory notebooks, and electronic documentation systems
• Support protein inventory management, sample tracking, and storage organization
• Monitor laboratory supplies and assist with inventory management and routine lab maintenance
• Collaborate with scientists and cross-functional teams to support research timelines and project objectives
• Follow laboratory safety guidelines, sterile techniques, and compliance standards in all activities

Required Qualifications:

• Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or related scientific discipline
• Minimum 2 years of hands-on laboratory experience in academic or industry settings
• Experience with standard molecular biology and biochemistry laboratory techniques
• Proficiency in:
• Micropipetting
• Sample and buffer preparation
• SDS-PAGE and western blotting
• Operation of standard laboratory equipment including centrifuges, balances, and pH meters
• Strong understanding of sterile technique and mammalian cell culture practices
• Ability to accurately follow laboratory protocols with exceptional attention to detail
• Strong organizational, documentation, and data-recording skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills in a collaborative team environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with membrane protein purification workflows
• Familiarity with AKTA chromatography systems
• Experience with mammalian cell culture
• Knowledge of protein characterization and analytical techniques
• Experience with affinity chromatography and protein QC assays
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced research environment while managing multiple priorities.

Salary and Other Compensation:

The annual [salary/hourly rate] for this position is between $28.00 - 30.00 per hour. Factors which may affect pay within this range may include geography/market, skills, education, experience, and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

Benefits:

The Company offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

[medical insurance], [dental insurance], [vision insurance], [401(k) retirement plan], [life insurance], [long-term disability insurance], [short-term disability insurance],

[paid parking/public transportation], [Paid time off], [Days/hours of paid sick and safe time], [Days/hours of paid vacation time], [Weeks of paid parental leave], [Paid holidays annually], [any additional benefits applicable].