Associate Scientist II

Planet Pharma Group; San Carlos (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet Pharma in San Carlos, CA is seeking an Associate Scientist II to support biologics/vaccine development. This entry‑to‑early‑career role involves executing experiments, collecting data, and preparing reports under supervision, with >=80% lab time.

You will follow SOPs, analyze results, contribute to method development, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams in a fast‑paced, regulated environment. This hands‑on position offers growth in analytical sciences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field with 0-2 relevant lab experience
• Experience in analytical development, QC, or related field preferred.
• Familiarity with GLP/GMP environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical characterization of protein and conjugated analytes using established methods such as HPLC, SEC‑MALS, CE‑SDS, cIEF, plate‑based assays like BCA and ELISA
• Screen monoclonal antibodies from external CRO and assist with shipping/receiving materials
• Develop, optimize, and transfer analytical assays for pipeline projects
• Document results and maintain ELN in compliance with company policies
• Author technical reports, protocols, and SOPs; present findings in team meetings
• Support routine lab activities including inventory and preparation of solutions

Skills

Biochemical assays

Cell culture

Data analysis

GLP/GMP awareness

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences

4 years industry experience or MS in related field

Tools

HPLC

SEC‑MALS

ELISA

SDS‑PAGE

cIEF

Job description

Duties

Duties:
The Associate Scientist II will support activities related to biologics/vaccine development programs and is an entry-to-early-career laboratory role responsible for executing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and supporting ongoing research projects under the guidance of senior scientific staff and is ideal for an early-career scientist seeking hands‑on experience in a fast‑paced analytical laboratory environment. This position will require >=80% time in the lab and this person will be able to independently follow experimental procedures and compile results in written and presentation formats.

Essential Functions

Perform routine and non-routine laboratory experiments following established protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Accurately record, organize, and analyze experimental data; summarize results in reports and presentations
Maintain detailed and compliant laboratory notebooks (electronic or physical)
Assist in the design and optimization of experimental methods and assays
Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment and instrumentation
Order and manage laboratory supplies, reagents, and materials
Ensure compliance with safety regulations, GLP/GMP standards, and institutional policies
Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (e.g., R&D, QA/QC, Regulatory Affairs) to support project timelines
Present findings at team meetings and contribute to internal reports or scientific publications
Troubleshoot experimental issues and propose solutions to senior team members
Stay current with relevant scientific literature and emerging techniques in the field

Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical characterization of protein, polysaccharide, and conjugated analytes using established methods – e.g. HPLC, SEC‑MALS, CE‑SDS, cIEF, plate‑based assays (BCA, residual DNA, anthrone), ELISA, SDS‑PAGE, western blot


• Screen monoclonal antibodies from external CRO and assist with shipping/receiving of related materials.


• Assist with development, optimization, and transfer of analytical assays that may come up as necessary in support of pipeline projects.


• Document experimental results and maintain electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) in compliance with company policies.


• Author technical reports, protocols, and SOPs


• Present findings to team and department meetings.


• Support in routine laboratory activities (e.g., laboratory inventory, ordering/procuring standards, preparation of solutions and media as necessary).


• Stay current on scientific literature and emerging technologies within area of expertise/interest.

Work Arrangement

On‑site (at least 4 days/week)

Skills

3-5 years of relevant laboratory experience (academic, internship, or industry) Hands‑on experience with techniques such as biochemical assays, ELISA, cell culture, chromatography, spectroscopy, or other role‑specific methods is preferred Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment (GLP, GMP, or CLIA) I preferred

• Hands‑on experience with biochemistry and biomolecular analytical methods with proficiency in HPLC, SEC‑MALS, plate‑based assays (BCA, lowry, picogreen, anthrone,), ELISA, SDS‑PAGE, western blot.


• Ability to contribute to the overall lab management, including reagent and sample organization.


• Proficiency in running multiple projects and demonstrated success working in a cross‑functional team environment.


• Knowledge of general chemistry principles coupled with problem‑solving abilities and attention to detail.


• Good interpersonal skills, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.


• General computer skills, Microsoft Office products (experience with scientific software is a plus).


• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices.


• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills.


• Specific experience in conjugate vaccine development a plus.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline with 0-2 relevant laboratory experience in analytical development, QC, or related field. Other combinations of education and/or experience may be considered.

B.S. with a minimum of 4 years of industry experience or a M.S. with 0-2 years of industry experience

Pay Range

35-45/hr DOE