(CW) Research Associate (Contract/Temporary)

biomarin; San Rafael (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. in California is seeking a Temporary Senior Research Associate I to support biologics purification and analytical characterization, focusing on recombinant enzymes and other biologics.

The role is lab-based, requires hands-on purification using ÄKTA systems, and involves data analysis, troubleshooting, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams within the TPDC group.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering or related field with 4–6 years of industry experience.
• Master's degree in a related field with 2–4 years of industry experience.
• Experience purifying recombinant enzymes, proteins, antibodies, or peptide therapeutics.

Responsibilities

• Perform purification of recombinant enzymes and biologics using ÄKTA systems.
• Develop and optimize chromatography workflows (AFF/ IEX/ SEC/ HIC).
• Conduct TFF/UF/DF concentration and buffer exchange.
• Analyze purity and identity via SDS-PAGE, SEC-HPLC, RP-HPLC, UV/Vis.
• Prepare buffers, reagents and perform instrument maintenance.
• Summarize results and present findings to cross-functional teams.

Skills

Protein purification

Biologics characterization

Analytical data interpretation

Laboratory teamwork

Independent working

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline

Master's degree in a related scientific discipline

Tools

ÄKTA Pure

ÄKTA Avant

FPLC systems

TFF/UF/DF filtration

Job description

Senior Research Associate I (Temporary) – Biologics Purification & Characterization

BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. – Worldwide Research & Development

Position Type: Temporary, Full-Time ONSITE

Position Summary

The Therapeutics Process Development & Characterization (TPDC) group is seeking a highly motivated Temporary Senior Research Associate I to support biologics purification and analytical characterization, with a primary focus on recombinant enzymes and additional exposure to therapeutic proteins, antibodies, and peptide-based modalities. This is a primarily laboratory-based role involving hands‑on purification and characterization of biologics using established chromatography and filtration workflows. The successful candidate will independently execute purification experiments, troubleshoot technical challenges, analyze experimental data, and contribute to activities supporting multiple early‑stage and exploratory research programs across BioMarin. The position also supports laboratory operations through routine instrument maintenance. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, scientifically curious, highly organized, and capable of working independently while collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary project teams.

Duties & Responsibilities

Protein & Biologic Purification

Independently perform purification of recombinant enzymes and other therapeutic biologics, including proteins, antibodies, and peptides, using ÄKTA Pure and ÄKTA Avant chromatography systems.

Execute and optimize purification workflows including:

• Affinity chromatography
• Ion exchange chromatography (AEX/CEX)
• Size‑exclusion chromatography (SEC)
• Hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC)
• Desalting and buffer exchange
• Perform concentration and buffer exchange using tangential‑flow filtration (TFF), ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF), or centrifugal filtration.

Evaluate purification performance and recommend process improvements to enhance yield, purity, and recovery.

Troubleshoot chromatography, filtration, and purification processes with minimal supervision.

Prepare buffers, reagents, and chromatography columns according to established procedures.

Perform routine instrument checks, preventative maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of purification equipment.

Analytical Characterization

Perform analytical assays to assess purity, identity, concentration, and quality of biologics, including:

• SDS‑PAGE
• CE‑SDS
• SEC‑HPLC
• RP‑HPLC
• UV/Vis spectrophotometry
• Additional protein and peptide analytical methods as required

Interpret analytical data to support purification process optimization and project decision‑making.

Analyze experimental results using GraphPad Prism, JMP, Microsoft Excel, or similar software.

Communicate experimental findings through technical summaries, presentations, and discussions with cross‑functional project teams.

Support analytical method development, qualification, or technology transfer activities as needed.

General Laboratory Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate and complete electronic and/or paper laboratory notebooks.
• Follow established SOPs and document deviations with guidance.
• Communicate results, observations, and progress updates clearly within the team.
• Contribute to a safe, clean, and well‑organized laboratory environment in compliance with BioMarin safety standards.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 4–6 years of relevant industry experience, or
• Master's degree in a related scientific discipline with 2–4 years of relevant industry experience.

Demonstrated experience purifying recombinant enzymes, proteins, antibodies, or peptide therapeutics.

Hands‑on experience operating ÄKTA Pure, ÄKTA Avant, or equivalent FPLC chromatography systems.

Experience with protein analytical techniques including SEC‑HPLC, RP‑HPLC, CE‑SDS, SDS‑PAGE, and UV/Vis spectroscopy.

Experience with tangential‑flow filtration (TFF) and ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF) is preferred.

Desired Skills

• Experience in protein purification and biologics characterization.
• Demonstrated ability to independently plan, execute, troubleshoot, and optimize purification experiments.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Experience with electronic laboratory notebooks (Benchling or similar) and data analysis software such as GraphPad Prism or JMP.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present technical data effectively.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining high‑quality scientific documentation.
• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary research teams.

Note: This description is not intended to be all‑inclusive, or a limitation of the duties of the position. It is intended to describe the general nature of the job that may include other duties as assumed or assigned.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled

An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Ireland Safety Responsibility

Support the organization’s commitment to environmental protection, injury prevention, and continual improvement of EHS management systems. Actively contribute to a safe and environmentally responsible workplace by identifying hazards, reporting incidents and participating in EHS initiatives and training.