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Salary: USD 86,500 - 101,000 / annual
Vaxcyte is a clinical-stage vaccine innovation company developing high-fidelity bacterial vaccines to protect against diseases such as invasive pneumococcal disease, Group A Strep, and Shigella. The company is seeking an Associate Scientist I, Research to support the development of bacterial polysaccharide conjugate vaccines through analytical characterization work.
In this laboratory-based role, you will execute established analytical assays to characterize in-process intermediates and drug substances containing proteins, polysaccharides, and protein-polysaccharide conjugates. Key responsibilities include performing routine assays such as SDS-PAGE, HPLC-SEC, RP-HPLC, SEC-MALS, Western Blot, and colorimetric microplate assays (ELISA, Lowery, Bradford, Hestrin, Anthrone). You will independently prepare buffers, reagents, and samples according to established protocols, including large-volume buffer preparation. Additional duties include preparing and autoclaving equipment and supplies, maintaining detailed laboratory records in Benchling and laboratory notebooks, reviewing assay results and communicating unexpected findings, and supporting analytical method development and troubleshooting under guidance.
You will work with an interdisciplinary Research team, coordinate sample testing with colleagues, participate in team meetings, and communicate findings to cross-functional collaborators and senior management. Daily laboratory operations support, including maintaining supplies, organizing workspaces, and performing routine instrument maintenance, is also part of the role. The position reports to a Scientist II, Research and requires 5 days per week onsite in San Carlos, CA.
Requirements:
- B.S. in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related discipline with 0-2 years of relevant industry experience; or M.S. with minimum 1 year of experience (other education/experience combinations may be considered)
- Proficiency and hands-on experience with bioanalytical techniques, particularly SDS-PAGE
- Hands-on experience with Agilent HPLC using OpenLab/Chemstation software (preferred)
- Hands-on experience with Wyatt Technology detectors including MALS and dRI using ASTRA software (preferred)
- Hands-on experience working with proteins, polysaccharides, and protein-polysaccharide conjugates (preferred)
- Hands-on experience with chemical and biological assays such as colorimetric microplate assays (preferred)
- Foundational understanding of analytical method development, qualification, and validation concepts
- Ability to independently follow established protocols after training, recognize unexpected results, and seek guidance when needed
- Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to accurate recordkeeping and documentation
- Ability to manage assigned tasks and communicate progress in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment
- Willingness and ability to learn new scientific concepts, analytical techniques, and software
- Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
