Job Title: Research Associate – Protein Engineering
Team: Protein Engineering Group (PEG), Protein and Analytical Core Technologies (PACT)
Location: Johnston, IA
Duration: 8+ Months
Work Type: Onsite

Role Overview

The Research Associate will support protein engineering efforts by expressing, purifying, and characterizing proteins. This role involves hands-on lab work, data documentation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to support the broader pipeline.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare reagents for protein purification experiments

• Perform recombinant protein expression

• Conduct protein purification (gravity flow chromatography & FPLC)

• Analyze proteins using:

  • SDS-PAGE

  • Western blot

  • DLS and related assays

• Maintain accurate data capture and documentation

• Perform routine lab support tasks:

  • Cleaning and maintenance

  • Inventory management

  • Equipment handling

• Troubleshoot experimental processes

• Ensure compliance with lab safety standards

• Identify and support process improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field

• Strong wet-lab experience

• Ability to work independently and in a team

• High attention to detail

• Problem-solving and analytical skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Self-motivated and goal-oriented

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in protein purification or molecular biology

• Knowledge of solution preparation

• Recombinant protein expression experience

• Exposure to phage display techniques

Additional Information

• Driving Requirement: No

• Special Equipment: None

 

 
 
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: $ 21.26/hr.