Associate Scientist I

Vaxcyte; San Carlos (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Vaxcyte is seeking an Associate Scientist I to support biologics and vaccine development programs in an entry-level capacity. The role emphasizes hands-on work in a fast-paced analytical lab, following established procedures and collecting data to support ongoing projects.

The successful candidate will spend most of their time conducting laboratory activities, preparing reagents, and recording results in ELNs, while collaborating with cross-functional teams and maintaining GLP/GMP standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• 0–2 years of relevant industry experience in analytical development, quality control, or a related laboratory environment.
• Hands-on experience with biochemical assays, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, and Western blot.
• Strong understanding of general chemistry and laboratory practices.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and laboratory documentation.
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices.
• Experience with conjugate vaccine development is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical characterization of protein, polysaccharide, and conjugated analytes using established methods.
• Perform biochemical assays including BCA, Lowry, PicoGreen, anthrone, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, and Western blot.
• Execute established assays independently and troubleshoot routine deviations.
• Assist with analytical method development, optimization, and transfer.
• Accurately record experimental results in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and laboratory materials.
• Maintain laboratory inventory and support ordering and sample organization.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional research and quality teams.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and applicable GLP/GMP standards.

Skills

Analytical problem solving

Strong written and verbal comms

Excellent organizational skills

Troubleshooting skills

Microsoft Office proficiency

Laboratory documentation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline

Tools

ELNs

ELN software

SDS-PAGE apparatus

ELISA plate reader

Job description

We are seeking an Associate Scientist I to support biologics and vaccine development programs. This entry-level to early-career position offers hands‑on experience in a fast-paced analytical laboratory environment.

The successful candidate will spend approximately 80% or more of their time performing laboratory activities, independently following established experimental procedures, collecting and analyzing data, and supporting ongoing research projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical characterization of protein, polysaccharide, and conjugated analytes using established methods.
• Perform biochemical assays including BCA, Lowry, PicoGreen, anthrone, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, and Western blot.
• Execute established assays independently and troubleshoot routine deviations.
• Assist with analytical method development, optimization, and transfer.
• Accurately record experimental results in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and laboratory materials.
• Maintain laboratory inventory and support ordering and sample organization.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional research and quality teams.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and applicable GLP/GMP standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• 0–2 years of relevant industry experience in analytical development, quality control, or a related laboratory environment.
• Hands‑on experience with biochemical assays, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, and Western blot.
• Strong understanding of general chemistry and laboratory practices.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and laboratory documentation.
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices.
• Experience with conjugate vaccine development is a plus.