Second-Shift Scientist: Antibody Purification & Conjugation

Actalent; Carlsbad (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Scientist II for the Antibody Purification & Conjugation team on the second shift in Carlsbad, CA. The role focuses on purifying monoclonal antibodies from hybridoma cultures and supporting fluorescent bioconjugate production.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years in antibody purification, hands-on chromatography experience (FPLC/ÄKTA), and strong documentation skills. This onsite, contract-to-hire position offers growth and training within a fast-paced biotech environment.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Cell Biology, or a related life science discipline.
• At least 2 years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Hands-on experience with protein or antibody purification utilizing chromatography-based methods.
• Working knowledge of FPLC and/or ÄKTA chromatography systems.
• Experience using spectrophotometers for protein concentration and quality analysis.
• Strong quantitative and laboratory math skills.
• Excellent documentation, organizational, and record-keeping abilities.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in a laboratory or manufacturing setting.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently after training in a fast-paced production environment.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Purify monoclonal antibodies from hybridoma cultures using affinity chromatography and related purification techniques.
• Execute purification processes and manage multiple production runs to meet operational schedules and quality standards.
• Operate and maintain chromatography systems, including FPLC and ÄKTA platforms.
• Perform concentration and quality assessments using spectrophotometry and other analytical methods.
• Support the production of fluorescently labeled bioconjugates for cell-signaling research applications.
• Prepare laboratory reagents, buffers, and materials required for purification and conjugation workflows.
• Accurately document production activities, process parameters, and experimental results.
• Follow established quality, safety, and compliance procedures in all laboratory operations.
• Troubleshoot routine chromatography, purification, and analytical issues while escalating complex concerns as needed.
• Apply laboratory calculations to prepare solutions, determine concentrations, and verify yields.
• Collaborate effectively with team members and cross-functional partners to support production goals and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Transition from a collaborative training environment to independently managing second-shift production activities.

Skills

Antibody purification

FPLC / ÄKTA knowledge

Spectrophotometer use

Documentation skills

Troubleshooting

Communication skills

Independent work

Physical ability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology/Biochemistry/Biotechnology/Cell Biology

Job description

Actalent is seeking a Scientist II for the Antibody Purification & Conjugation team on the second shift in Carlsbad, CA. The role focuses on purifying monoclonal antibodies from hybridoma cultures and supporting fluorescent bioconjugate production.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years in antibody purification, hands-on chromatography experience (FPLC/ÄKTA), and strong documentation skills. This onsite, contract-to-hire position offers growth and training within a fast-paced biotech environment.