Associate Scientist II (Spectroscopy)

R&D Partners; San Carlos (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 77,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance – PPO, HMO & HSA

401k plan

Employee Assistance Program

Long-term disability

Weekly payroll

Online timecard approval

Job summary

R&D Partners is hiring an Associate Scientist II in San Carlos, CA on a 12-month contract. You will perform routine elemental analysis by atomic spectroscopy, including aluminum content testing in adjuvanted vaccine formulations, and support MSD and particle analytics under supervision.

The role emphasizes careful data handling and willingness to learn new techniques. Based in a lab setting, you will operate and maintain ICP-OES/ICP-MS/AAS/MP-AES equipment, prepare samples and standards, and

Qualifications

• BS in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field; minimum 2 years of lab experience.
• Hands-on lab experience; exposure to elemental trace-metal analysis (ICP-OES/ICP-MS/AAS/MP-AES) is a plus.
• Experience with multiplexed immunoassays (MSD) and particle characterization is a plus.
• Prior experience with colorimetric assays is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and record-keeping.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine elemental analysis by atomic spectroscopy and aluminum content testing.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain elemental spectroscopy and microwave digestion instrumentation.
• Analyze internal release, development, and stability samples across Drug Product teams.
• Support testing of MSD and particle analytics; troubleshoot established methods.
• Contribute to non-GxP stability studies under supervision.
• Accurately record and report data; assist in protocols, SOPs, and summaries.
• Collaborate with Drug Product Development, Formulation, Analytical Development, and Quality.

Skills

Atomic spectroscopy

MSD testing

Particle analytics

Record-keeping

Detail-oriented

Education

BS in Chemistry/Analytical Chemistry/Biochemistry or related field

Tools

ICP-OES

ICP-MS

AAS

MP-AES

Job description

We are hiring an Associate Scientist II to support our biotechnology client's project needs. You will perform routine elemental analysis by atomic spectroscopy, including aluminum content testing of adjuvanted vaccine formulations, and will support routine testing of multiplexed immunoassay (MSD) and particle analytics functions under the guidance of senior team members. This position is lab-based and best suited to an individual who is comfortable executing established methods with attention to detail, strong record-keeping, and a willingness to learn new techniques while working under supervision from more senior scientists.

This is a 12-month contract position based in San Carlos, CA.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine elemental analysis by atomic spectroscopy, including aluminum content testing of adjuvanted vaccine Drug Product and in-process materials, following established methods and procedures.
• Operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance of elemental spectroscopy and microwave digestion instrumentation, including sample and standard preparation and calibration curves.
• Execute routine analysis of internal release, development, and stability samples across Drug Product working groups, ensuring accurate, timely data generation and documentation.
• Support routine testing of multiplexed immunoassay (MSD) and particle analytics functions, including execution and troubleshooting of established methods under guidance.
• Support execution of non-GxP stability studies, including thermal, freeze/thaw, agitation, and container closure system evaluations, under the direction of senior scientists.
• Accurately record, organize, and report data, and assist in the preparation of technical documentation such as protocols, SOPs, and summaries.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Drug Product Development, Formulation, Analytical Development, and Quality to support ongoing programs.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field with minimum 2 years of relevant industry or laboratory experience.
• Hands-on laboratory experience is preferred; exposure to elemental (trace-metals) analysis by atomic spectroscopy techniques such as ICP-OES, ICP-MS, AAS, or MP-AES is a plus.
• Exposure to multiplexed immunoassays (MSD) and/or particle characterization techniques is a plus.
• Prior experience running colorimetric assays (e.g., Modified Lowry, BCA) is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and thorough record-keeping abilities.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Commitment to integrity, professionalism, and safety in all aspects of work.

Pay

• $51-$56/hr

Why Choose R&D Partners?

As an employee, you have access to a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical insurance – PPO, HMO & HSA
• 401k plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Long-term disability
• Weekly payroll
• Online timecard approval

R&D Partners is a global functional service provider and strategic staffing resource specializing in scientific, clinical research & engineering. We provide job opportunities within major pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies.

R&D Partners is an equal-opportunity employer.