Lead Protein Biochemistry Scientist, Biologics

1000scholars; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The Deb Laboratory within UCLA's Division of Cardiology is seeking an Assistant or Associate Project Scientist to lead recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization to accelerate biologics development. This staff scientist role focuses on building an in-house capability from bench to clinic.

You will own end-to-end production for recombinant proteins and antibody therapeutics, collaborating with PI and senior lab members to support translational programs and prepare

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent in biochemistry, protein biochemistry, molecular biology, or closely related field is required.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on experience with mammalian recombinant protein expression and purification.

Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and execute mammalian recombinant protein expression using HEK293, CHO, or equivalent systems.
• Purify proteins to high purity using affinity, SEC, and ion exchange chromatography.
• Perform rigorous quality characterization including SDS-PAGE, western blot, ELISA, DLS, and binding validation by SPR or BLI.
• Maintain detailed records of production runs, yields, and QC results.
• Collaborate with postdocs and project scientists on protein-dependent aims.
• Contribute to publications and grant applications as relevant.
• Evaluate and implement new expression and purification technologies as pipeline evolves.

Skills

Mammalian expression

Protein purification

SDS-PAGE

Western blot

ELISA

SPR/BLI binding

FPLC/ÄKTA chromatography

GMP-adjacent processes

Documentation & records

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in biochemistry/protein biochemistry/molecular biology

Tools

FPLC/ÄKTA

Biacore/SPR

BLI/Octet

SEC-HPLC

Job description

The Deb Laboratory within UCLA's Division of Cardiology is seeking an Assistant or Associate Project Scientist to lead recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization to accelerate biologics development. This staff scientist role focuses on building an in-house capability from bench to clinic.

You will own end-to-end production for recombinant proteins and antibody therapeutics, collaborating with PI and senior lab members to support translational programs and prepare