Associate Scientist

Planet Pharma; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 26,174 - 38,572; Full time

Job summary

Planet Pharma seeks an Associate Scientist to support protein and antibody production, purification, and analytical workflows in the Discovery Protein Science team. You will execute established protein production programs and ensure high-quality reagents through meticulous record-keeping.

The role involves transient and stable mammalian expression, rigorous documentation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced research setting. DOE applies. This position is on-site.

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in biology-related field.
• Minimum of 2 years hands-on lab experience in protein purification/analytics.
• Proficiency with AKTA/FPLC, HPLC, and related equipment.
• Experience with protein characterization and analytical techniques.
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation and data recording.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform purifications via AKTA/FPLC, focusing on antibody-based molecules.
• Characterize proteins and antibodies using analytical methods (HPLC, SDS-PAGE, LC-MS).
• Express recombinant proteins and antibodies in mammalian cells when needed.
• Maintain accurate lab records and documentation.
• Support inventory, reagent prep, and lab organization.

Skills

Attention to detail

Written and verbal communication

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Biology/ Biochemistry/ Biotechnology/ Molecular Biology

Tools

AKTA/FPLC chromatography systems

HPLC

LC‑MS

KingFisher automation

Hamilton automation

DNA construct design & cloning

Job description

Target PR Range: 19-28/hr DOE

Position Summary

The Associate Scientist will support protein and antibody production, purification, and analytical activities within the Discovery Protein Science department. This role will primarily support the Induced Proximity Platform by executing established protein production and characterization workflows. The individual will contribute to multiple protein production requests, maintain accurate experimental records, and collaborate with cross-functional scientists to deliver high-quality protein reagents in a fast-paced research environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Perform AKTA/FPLC-based purifications (Affinity, ion-exchange (IEX), hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC), size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and other chromatography-based methods) with a focus on antibody-based molecules.
2. Perform biochemical and biophysical characterization of proteins and antibodies using analytical HPLC, SDS‑PAGE, endotoxin testing and LC‑MS.
3. Perform transient and stable mammalian cell expression of recombinant proteins and antibodies, as needed.
4. Maintain detailed laboratory documentation and experimental records.
5. Support inventory management, reagent preparation, and laboratory organization.

Basic Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline
• Minimum of 2 years of hands‑on laboratory experience in protein purification, protein analytics, or related biologics research in an academic or industry setting
• Proficiency with AKTA/FPLC chromatography systems, HPLC and related laboratory equipment
• Experience with protein characterization and analytical techniques
• Ability to follow established protocols with strong attention to detail
• Effective written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of antibody formats, isotypes and structures
• Understanding of sterile technique and mammalian cell culture practices
• Familiarity with automation such as KingFisher and Hamilton
• Hands‑on experience in DNA construct design and molecular cloning
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross‑functional research environment
• Demonstrated scientific analysis and problem‑solving skills