Position Title: Associate Scientist
Work Location: Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Assignment Duration: 2 yrs (Possible Extension)
Work Arrangement: Fully onsite
 
Position Summary: We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to join our Protein Biochemistry team.
 
Key Responsibilities:

• In this role, you will contribute to the expression, purification, and characterization of recombinant proteins to support drug discovery and development programs for our organization's Induced Proximity Programs.
• You will work closely with experienced scientists in a collaborative environment, gaining hands-on experience with state-of-the-art technologies while supporting drug discovery across various therapeutic areas.

Day to Day Responsibilities:      

• Protein expression experiments in microbial and mammalian systems using established laboratory protocols.
• Routine protein purification workflows (e.g., affinity, ion-exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography) independently for known constructs, while assisting senior scientists with developing and optimizing purification strategies for new protein candidates.
• Biochemical and biophysical characterization of protein samples using SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, mass photometry, and related analytical techniques.
• Recording experimental methods, observations, and results in detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks to ensure data integrity and reproducibility.
• Support daily lab operations by preparing buffers and reagents, ensuring equipment is maintained, and adhering to all safety and quality standards.
• Collaborate with teammates to troubleshoot experiments, share results, and support ongoing research projects

 Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum B.S. with relevant work experience (1-2+ years) or an M.S. in the field of Biochemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Structural Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.

Must Have Skill Sets:    

• Experience in protein expression in microbial systems (e.g., E. coli); experience with eukaryotic cell culture (e.g., mammalian or insect systems) is a plus.
• Strong expertise in protein purification, including techniques such as affinity chromatography, ion exchange, and size exclusion chromatography. Familiarity with chromatography systems (e.g., Cytiva AKTA, Agilent HPLC) and related software.
• Comprehensive experience in biochemical and biophysical protein analysis, including methods such as SDS-PAGE, Western blotting and mass spectrometry.

 
 
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: $ 29.00/hr.