Job title: Associate Scientist Location: 100% onsite South San Francisco, CA 94080 Duration: 12 Months (Possibility of extension depending upon business requirements and performance)
The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of hands-on laboratory experience in either academic or industry settings, with strong experience in protein purification techniques. Experience working with AKTA systems is highly preferred. Candidates should demonstrate strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively within a collaborative scientific team environment. This is a fully onsite role requiring daily presence in the South San Francisco lab. The team is seeking someone dependable, adaptable, and capable of balancing laboratory execution with documentation responsibilities in a fast-paced research setting.
Description: The Associate Scientist will support membrane protein purification, and general laboratory operations within a collaborative research environment. The individual will contribute to multiple projects by executing established laboratory protocols, maintaining accurate experimental records, and supporting protein production workflows.
Key Responsibilities:
Perform membrane protein purification, including cell lysis and membrane pellet preparation
Conduct affinity chromatography using anti-FLAG, Strep-Tactin, and Ni-NTA purification systems
Operate AKTA chromatography systems for protein purification workflows
Run and analyze SDS-PAGE gels and western blots
Perform protein concentration analysis using spectrophotometry and colorimetric assays
Utilize HPLC methods for protein quality control
Maintain detailed laboratory documentation and experimental records
Support inventory management, reagent preparation, and laboratory organization
Manage storage and tracking of protein inventories
Basic Qualifications:
Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Bachelor of Science degree in a scientific discipline
Minimum of 2 years of laboratory experience in academic or industry settings
Hands-on experience with standard molecular biology and biochemistry laboratory techniques
Proficiency with micropipetting, centrifuges, balances, pH meters, and related laboratory equipment
Strong understanding of sterile technique and mammalian cell culture practices
Ability to follow established protocols with strong attention to detail
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with membrane protein purification
Familiarity with AKTA chromatography systems
Experience culturing mammalian cells
Knowledge of protein characterization and analytical techniques
Basic Qualifications: Masters degree OR Bachelors degree and 2 years of experience OR Associate?s degree and 4 years of experience OR High school diploma / GED and 6 years of experience
Top 3 Must Have Skill Sets: 1. Hands-on Laboratory Experience
Minimum 2 years of laboratory experience in a scientific setting
Strong proficiency in micropipetting, sample preparation, SDS-PAGE, buffer preparation, and operation of standard laboratory equipment
2. Protein Purification and Analytical Techniques
Experience with membrane protein purification workflows and chromatography methods
Familiarity with AKTA purification systems, affinity chromatography, western blotting, and protein characterization assays
Ability to perform and interpret basic protein QC analyses
3. Attention to Detail and Communication
Ability to follow established laboratory protocols accurately and consistently
Strong documentation, organizational, and data-recording skills
Effective written and verbal communication skills within a collaborative research environment
Day to Day Responsibilities:
Perform membrane protein purification activities including cell lysis, membrane preparation, affinity purification, and chromatography workflows
Operate AKTA chromatography systems and related laboratory instrumentation for protein purification and analysis
Conduct SDS-PAGE, western blotting, spectrophotometry, HPLC, and other protein characterization assays
Prepare laboratory reagents, buffers, and samples according to established protocols
Accurately document experimental procedures, observations, and results in laboratory records and electronic systems
Monitor laboratory inventory, organize consumables, and support routine laboratory maintenance activities
Collaborate with scientists and cross-functional team members to support project timelines and research priorities
Follow safety guidelines, sterile techniques, and laboratory compliance standards in all daily activities
Possible Extension: Yes
Red Flags: N/A
Interview Process: Hiring Manager Interview
Review of hands-on laboratory experience
Technical discussion focused on protein purification, cell culture, SDS-PAGE, western blotting, and chromatography workflows
Assessment of problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and communication skills
Team/Panel Interview (if applicable)
Discussion with scientists or team members regarding collaboration and laboratory operations
Evaluation of fit within a fast-paced research environment
Potential scenario-based or troubleshooting questions related to laboratory workflows
Applicant Notices & Disclaimers
For information on benefits, equal opportunity employment, and location-specific applicant notices, click here
At SPECTRAFORCE, we are committed to maintaining a workplace that ensures fair compensation and wage transparency in adherence with all applicable state and local laws. This position’s starting pay is: $ 25.47/hr.
