Senior Research Associate - Protein Purification
Job Description
Job Description
Senior Research Associate I – Biologics Purification & Characterization
1-Year Contract
Pay Rate: Up to $62.25/hour
Location: San Rafael, CA
Schedule: Onsite, Monday–Friday (5 days per week)
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate I to support biologics purification and analytical characterization within a collaborative research and development environment. This laboratory-based role focuses on recombinant enzymes as well as other therapeutic biologics, including proteins, antibodies, and peptide-based molecules.
The successful candidate will independently perform protein purification experiments using chromatography systems, execute analytical characterization assays, troubleshoot technical challenges, analyze experimental data, and support multiple early-stage research programs. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on laboratory work, problem-solving, and collaborating with multidisciplinary scientific teams.
Key Responsibilities
Protein Purification
- Perform purification of recombinant proteins, enzymes, antibodies, and peptide therapeutics using ÄKTA Pure, ÄKTA Avant, or equivalent FPLC chromatography systems.
- Execute purification workflows including:
-
- Affinity Chromatography
- Ion Exchange Chromatography (AEX/CEX)
- Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC)
- Hydrophobic Interaction Chromatography (HIC)
- Desalting and Buffer Exchange
- Perform protein concentration and buffer exchange using tangential flow filtration (TFF), ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF), or centrifugal filtration.
- Evaluate purification performance and optimize processes to improve yield, purity, and recovery.
- Troubleshoot chromatography and filtration processes with minimal supervision.
- Prepare buffers, reagents, and chromatography columns while maintaining purification equipment.
Analytical Characterization
- Perform protein characterization using techniques including:
-
- SDS-PAGE
- CE-SDS
- SEC-HPLC
- RP-HPLC
- UV/Vis Spectrophotometry
- Analyze and interpret experimental data using GraphPad Prism, JMP, Microsoft Excel, or similar software.
- Present technical findings through written summaries and cross-functional team discussions.
- Support analytical method development, qualification, and technology transfer activities as needed.
Laboratory Support
- Maintain accurate laboratory documentation using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).
- Follow established laboratory procedures, SOPs, and safety practices.
- Perform routine instrument maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment.
- Collaborate effectively with scientists and cross-functional research teams.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 4–6 years of relevant industry experience, or a Master's degree with 2–4 years of relevant industry experience.
- Hands-on experience purifying recombinant proteins, enzymes, antibodies, or peptide therapeutics.
- Experience operating ÄKTA Pure, ÄKTA Avant, or equivalent FPLC chromatography systems.
- Strong experience with protein purification techniques, including affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion, and hydrophobic interaction chromatography.
- Experience with protein analytical methods such as SEC-HPLC, RP-HPLC, CE-SDS, SDS-PAGE, and UV/Vis spectroscopy.
- Strong troubleshooting, analytical, organizational, and scientific documentation skills.
Preferred
- Experience with tangential flow filtration (TFF) and ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF).
- Familiarity with Benchling or other electronic laboratory notebook platforms.
- Experience with GraphPad Prism, JMP, or similar scientific data analysis software.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to present technical data and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
Why Apply?
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative biologic therapeutics while working in a collaborative research environment. You'll gain exposure to advanced protein purification technologies, support multiple research programs, and play a key role in advancing early-stage biologics through purification and analytical characterization.
Company DescriptionThe TPS Group, www.tpsmithgroup.com, is a Certified Woman and Disabled Owned Diverse recruiting and staffing firm that is a trusted recruiting partner to top companies.
Company Description
The TPS Group, www.tpsmithgroup.com, is a Certified Woman and Disabled Owned Diverse recruiting and staffing firm that is a trusted recruiting partner to top companies.