Job Description
Job Summary:
- We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist (Contract) to support our Protein Sciences team.
- This individual will contribute as a hands-on laboratory scientist, executing protein production, purification, and analytical workflows that support multiple CAR-T and cell therapy programs.
This is a 100% bench-focused, individual contributor role. - The successful candidate will work closely with scientists across Protein Science and Research to generate high-quality data and reagents, while contributing to efficient laboratory operations and experimental execution.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Protein Production & Purification:
- Execute recombinant protein expression and purification workflows across multiple expression systems (e.g., mammalian cell culture, transient transfections).
- Perform protein purification using AKTA chromatography systems (affinity, SEC, ion exchange.
- Maintain cell cultures and support transfection workflows.
Analytical Characterization:
- Document and summarize experimental data clearly to support team decision-making.
- Perform biochemical and biophysical characterization of proteins and antibodies, including:
- SDS-PAGE and Western blot.
- UPLC/HPLC-based purity assessment.
- Binding assays (e.g., Octet/BLI).
Protein Modification & Assay Support:
- Perform antibody and protein conjugation workflows with appropriate analytical follow-up.
- Prepare reagents and materials to support downstream functional assays (e.g., flow cytometry or cell-based assays in collaboration with Cell Biology partners).
Lab Operations & Execution:
- Maintain organized lab practices, including reagents, consumables, and shared equipment.
- Ensure accurate experimental documentation in electronic lab notebooks and LIMS.
- Follow established SOPs and contribute to maintaining reproducibility and data quality standards.
Collaboration:
- Work closely with cross-functional partners to execute experiments aligned with defined protocols and timelines.
- Communicate experimental progress and results effectively to project teams.
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Protein Science, or related field.
- 2–4+ years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience in academic or industry settings.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with recombinant protein expression and purification workflows.
- Hands-on experience with AKTA systems and chromatography methods.
- Familiarity with protein characterization techniques (SDS-PAGE, HPLC, BLI/Octet, etc.).
- Experience with mammalian cell culture and transfections.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality data generation and documentation.
- Ability to follow protocols, troubleshoot at the experiment level, and work effectively in a fast-paced lab environment.
Key Characteristics for Success in This Role:
- Strong hands-on bench execution skills.
- High level of organization and reproducibility.
- Ability to independently execute experiments with appropriate controls.
- Collaborative mindset and willingness to support team priorities.