Research Associate II, Discovery Bioscience

Astellas-5c3299a9; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Paid Time Off

401(k) match

Annual Corporate Bonus

Long Term Incentive Plan

Company fleet vehicle

Job summary

Astellas is seeking a Research Associate II for the Discovery Bioscience team in South San Francisco. You will help develop, characterize, and produce AAV vectors, collaborating across R&D groups in a dynamic, on-site lab setting.

The role emphasizes cell culture, molecular biology, protein purification, and vector characterization. Strong communication and teamwork are essential for meeting project goals and timelines in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a life science or related discipline with 3+ years of cell culture experience or a Master’s with 1+ year.
• Hands-on sterile technique for mammalian cell lines and plating, maintenance, and banking.
• Molecular biology techniques including cloning, DNA/RNA/protein isolation, and PCR.
• Protein expression, purification and characterization experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform cell culture including thawing, maintenance, transfection, and cryopreservation of cell lines.
• Produce and purify AAV vectors for programs and collaborate with teams.
• Document characterization results and timelines for other groups.
• Communicate results and timelines to other functional groups.
• Support laboratory management and safety activities.

Skills

Cell culture

Sterile technique

Mammalian cells

Molecular biology

Protein purification

Transfection

AKTA chromatography

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

BSc life science / related

MS in related field

Tools

AKTA

Plasmid prep

Job description

Research Associate II, Discovery Bioscience

#26-POS00049989

Job Description

Research Associate II, Discovery Bioscience

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com.

Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

Purpose & Scope

The Research Associate will be an integral member of the Vector Bioscience team and assist in developing, characterizing, and producing AAV vectors. The Research Associate will work at our South San Francisco R&D laboratories, supporting and collaborating with various research and development groups.

Role and Responsibilities

• Perform cell culture work, including thawing, maintaining, transfecting, and cryopreserving cell lines
• Production and purification of AAV vectors for various programs
• Collaborate with other teams to acquire and characterize vectors
• Document characterization of vectors and other activities
• Communicate results and timelines to other functional groups
• Collaborate in laboratory management and safety activities

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a life science, chemical engineering or related discipline with 3+ years of experience or a Master's degree with 1+ years of experience in cell culture and protein purification techniques.
• Proven hands-on experience with sterile technique for handling and growing mammalian cell lines, including maintenance, cell characterization and differentiation, expansion, and banking
• Demonstrated experience with routine molecular biology techniques (cloning, DNA/RNA/protein isolation, digital PCR), plasmid preparation
• Protein expression and purification, and characterization
• Transfection and/or transformation experience with mammalian or bacterial cells.
• Experience with purification and chromatography systems such as the AKTA
• Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented environment to meet project goals and timelines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with viruses, especially Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV)
• Industry experience

Location and Working Environment

• This position is based in South San Francisco, CA and will require on-site work.
• This is a highly collaborative and laboratory-based role with reasonably flexible working arrangements.

What awaits you at Astellas?

• Global collaboration: Become part of a connected global business of like-minded life science leaders, all dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide.
• Real-world patient impact: Contribute to transformative therapies that reach patients around the world, knowing your work makes a difference every day.
• Relentless Innovation: Join a company at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare.
• A Culture of Growth: Chart your own course within a supportive environment that values your contributions, champions your development, and empowers you to pursue your passions.

Our Organizational Values and Behaviors

Values: Innovation, Integrity and Impact sit at the heart of what we do.

Behaviors: We come together as 'One Astellas', working with courage and a sense of urgency. We are outcome focused and consistently take accountability for our personal contribution.

Salary Range

$69,790-$99,700 (Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, experience and organizational equity considerations.)

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year-end shut down
• 401(k) match and annual company contribution
• Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions
• Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions
• Company fleet vehicle for eligible positions

Our organization is committed to diversity, equal opportunity, and affirmative action. We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.