Associate Scientist - Purification Process Development

Job Title: Associate Scientist – Purification Process Development

Location: Oceanside, CA 92056

Duration:  12 months+ contract

Pay Rate: 50$-56$/hr. On W2

Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate II / Associate Scientist to support purification process development during pivotal and commercial development phases. This role focuses on high-throughput purification of upstream and cell culture samples, downstream process characterization, and the development and optimization of automated purification assays.

The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on laboratory experience in high-throughput purification, automated liquid handling systems, chromatography, and microscale purification techniques. The successful candidate will be responsible for executing experiments, troubleshooting automated workflows, analyzing data, and supporting process development initiatives in a collaborative research environment.

Key Responsibilities

High-Throughput Purification and Automation

• Execute high-throughput purification workflows for upstream and cell culture samples.
• Operate, optimize, troubleshoot, and maintain automated liquid handling platforms, including Tecan and Hamilton systems.
• Develop, qualify, and optimize high-throughput purification assays and microscale purification methods.
• Coordinate with upstream teams to ensure timely sample processing and accurate data delivery.

Purification Process Development

• Design and execute purification process development and characterization experiments.
• Perform bench-scale purification studies using chromatography, filtration, and microscale purification systems.
• Support downstream process characterization and development activities.
• Collect, analyze, interpret, and report experimental data while maintaining data integrity.

Documentation and Laboratory Operations

• Prepare and maintain experimental protocols, technical reports, and electronic laboratory notebook records.
• Support the implementation of new purification technologies, instrumentation, and workflow improvements.
• Maintain laboratory equipment readiness and ensure proper laboratory organization.
• Follow applicable laboratory safety procedures, training requirements, and quality and compliance standards.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with upstream, downstream, and other cross-functional teams on process development initiatives.
• Communicate experimental progress, results, and technical challenges effectively.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of purification methods and laboratory workflows.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related discipline with at least 2 years of relevant industry experience; OR
• Bachelor's degree in a related scientific or engineering discipline with at least 4 years of relevant industry experience.
• Hands-on experience developing and executing high-throughput purification assays.
• Experience operating automated liquid handling platforms such as Tecan or Hamilton.
• Practical knowledge of chromatography, including ÄKTA or plate-based chromatography systems.
• Experience with filtration and standard downstream purification techniques.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with microscale chromatography and automated purification workflows.
• Experience supporting biopharmaceutical process development and characterization.
• Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks, experimental documentation, and data integrity practices.
• Experience optimizing laboratory automation methods and troubleshooting instrumentation.

Work Environment

This is a fully onsite, laboratory-based contract position in Oceanside, California. Candidates must be able to work onsite five days per week and perform hands-on experimental laboratory activities.

LanceSoft is rated as one of the largest staffing firms in the US by SIA. Our mission is to establish global cross-culture human connections that further the careers of our employees and strengthen the businesses of our clients. We are driven to use the power of our global network to connect businesses with the right people, and people with the right businesses without bias. We provide Global Workforce Solutions with a human touch.