Associate Scientist

LeadStack Inc.; Oceanside (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Part time

Job summary

LeadStack Inc. is seeking an Associate Scientist to support purification process development during pivotal and commercial development phases.

The role focuses on high‑throughput purification of upstream/cell culture samples and the development of automated workflows using Tecan and Hamilton platforms. The ideal candidate will have hands‑on lab skills, experience with HTP purification methods, and the ability to establish, troubleshoot, and refine automated workflows in a fast‑paced environment.

Qualifications

• MS or BS with industry experience in chemical engineering, biochemistry, bioengineering, or related discipline.
• Experience developing and executing high‑throughput purification assays with automated liquid handling systems (Tecan, Hamilton, microscale chromatography).
• Experience with chromatography (AKTA/plate‑based), filtration, and standard downstream techniques.
• Strong analytical, documentation, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and in fast‑paced, collaborative environments.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• High‑Throughput Purification & Automation: execute HTP workflows for upstream/cell culture samples and support process characterization.
• Operate, optimize, and maintain automated liquid handling systems (Hamilton, Tecan).
• Develop, qualify, and refine HTP purification assays and microscale purification methods.
• Collaborate with upstream teams to ensure timely sample processing and data delivery.

Skills

HTP purification

Automated liquid handling

Data integrity

Lab documentation

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

MS in related field

BS with 4+ years

Tools

AKTA chromatography

Tecan automation

Hamilton automation

Job description

• We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to support purification process development during pivotal and commercial development phases.
• This contract role focuses on high‑throughput purification of upstream/cell culture samples and supports downstream purification characterization studies.
• A core part of this role is the development and optimization of high‑throughput purification assays using state‑of‑the‑art automation platforms (e.g., Tecan, Hamilton).
• The ideal candidate brings strong hands‑on laboratory skills, deep familiarity with HTP purification methods, and the ability to establish, troubleshoot, and refine automated workflows.

Key Responsibilities

• High‑Throughput Purification & Automation
• Execute high‑throughput purification (HTP) workflows for upstream/cell culture samples to support process characterization.
• Operate, optimize, and maintain automated liquid handling systems such as Hamilton and Tecan platforms.
• Develop, qualify, and refine HTP purification assays and microscale purification methods.
• Collaborate with upstream teams to ensure timely sample processing and data delivery.

Purification Process Development

• Contribute to experimental design and execute purification process development and characterization experiments.
• Conduct bench‑scale purification studies using chromatography, filtration, and microscale systems.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data in compliance with data integrity expectations.
• Prepare high‑quality protocols, reports, and electronic laboratory notebook documentation.

Technical Excellence & Collaboration

• Support implementation of new purification technologies, instrumentation, and platform enhancements.
• Maintain a state‑of‑the‑art purification lab, including instrumentation readiness and workflow improvements.
• Partner with upstream, downstream, and cross‑functional colleagues as needed on development and characterization initiatives.
• Follow all compliance, training, and safety requirements.

Qualifications / Skills / Experience

• M.S. with 2+ years or B.S. with 4+ years of relevant industry experience in chemical engineering, biochemistry, bioengineering, or related discipline.
• Expertise developing and executing HTP purification assays, including automated liquid handling systems such as Tecan, Hamilton, and microscale chromatography platforms.
• Experience with chromatography (e.g., AKTA, plate‑based), filtration, and standard downstream techniques.
• Strong analytical, documentation, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in collaborative, fast‑paced environments.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills

If you have any questions, feel free to call me on [phone] or send an email on [e-mail]