Associate Scientist

Associate Scientist - Protein Chemistry (Analytics and Purification)

Job Description

This onsite Associate Scientist position supports a multidisciplinary Protein Chemistry team responsible for engineering, producing, assessing, and selecting large molecule drug candidates that advance into process development. You will focus on either protein analytics or protein purification, contributing to the analysis and characterization of complex biologic therapeutics. Working closely with project analytics and automation teams, you will help drive the next generation of large molecule therapeutics by generating high-quality data, interpreting results, and supporting lead candidate selection.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and characterize novel and complex large molecule therapeutic drug candidates, with a focus on biologics.
• Execute protein analytics and molecular assessment activities using a variety of techniques, instrumentation, and analysis software.
• Perform protein purification using appropriate laboratory techniques and platforms, particularly for candidates in the purification-focused profile.
• Operate and troubleshoot automation platforms for high-throughput protein purification and analytics.
• Contribute to the development and optimization of new processes, methods, and workflows for protein purification and analytical characterization.
• Capture and maintain accurate experimental data in LIMS and electronic lab notebook (ELN) systems.
• Organize, analyze, and interpret experimental data, including large datasets, to support lead candidate selection and project decision-making.
• Summarize and report experimental results and key findings to work groups and cross-functional project teams in a clear and concise manner.
• Partner with project analytics and automation teams to advance the therapeutic pipeline and improve analytical and purification capabilities.
• Work flexibly and efficiently in a cross-functional environment, managing multiple tasks and priorities.
• Apply independent critical thinking and creative problem-solving to troubleshoot experiments and improve methods.
• Collaborate effectively within a diverse team environment, contributing to a culture of open communication and shared scientific rigor.

Essential Skills

• Master's degree in life sciences, or a Bachelor's degree in life sciences with at least 2 years of relevant scientific experience.
• Hands-on experience in protein purification and/or protein analytics within a laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with protein analytical techniques such as HPLC, PLC, FPLC, gel-based protein analysis (running gels), Western blot, and microcapillary electrophoresis (MCE) or similar protein characterization techniques.
• Experience using protein analytics instrumentation and associated analysis software, such as Chromeleon and LabChip.
• Demonstrated ability to operate and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and automation platforms used for high-throughput purification and analytics.
• Strong data handling skills, including the ability to work with and interpret large datasets.
• Proven strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to clearly present data and conclusions to teams.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and work efficiently in a cross-functional, collaborative team environment.
• Evidence of attention to detail and high-quality documentation practices, including use of LIMS and ELN systems.
• Track record of independent critical thinking and creative problem-solving in a scientific setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience specifically focused on protein analytics for biologic molecules, including characterization of complex large molecule therapeutics.
• Experience with high-throughput purification and analytical techniques, including operation of automation platforms.
• Relevant experience in protein chemistry, with understanding of protein purification processes and the underlying science.
• Experience handling and analyzing complex or high-volume experimental datasets.
• Prior experience contributing to the development and optimization of new laboratory processes and methods.
• Comfort working in a multidisciplinary environment that includes protein engineering, expression, purification, and characterization.
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully within diverse, collaborative teams and contribute to a positive team culture.

Work Environment

This role is 100% onsite in a laboratory-based environment. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, approximately 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with overtime or weekend work not generally expected. You will work in a multidisciplinary protein therapeutics setting that integrates protein engineering, expression, purification, and characterization. The laboratory uses a range of protein analytical and purification technologies, including HPLC, PLC, FPLC, gel-based protein analysis systems, Western blot platforms, microcapillary electrophoresis (MCE) instruments, and automation platforms for high-throughput purification and analytics. You will regularly use analysis software such as Chromeleon and LabChip, as well as LIMS and electronic lab notebook (ELN) systems for data capture and documentation. The environment emphasizes scientific rigor, cross-functional collaboration, and clear communication, with a strong focus on data quality, attention to detail, and continuous improvement of methods and processes. Appropriate laboratory attire and adherence to standard lab safety practices are required.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Thousand Oaks, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $27.00 - $27.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Thousand Oaks,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 16, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.