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Scientist II

South San Francisco, CA 94080

Posted: 04/11/2025 Employment Type: Contract Job Category: Scientific Job Number: 618878 Is job remote?: No Country: United States

Job Description


Target PR Range: 50-60/hr
*Depending on experience


Key Responsibilities:
· Design and perform plate-based and cell-based assays (multi-color flow cytometry, Western blot, ELISA, etc.) to assess mRNA delivery and protein expression in mammalian cells using LNP systems.

· Design and perform high-throughput expression and functional screen/characterization assays for novel protein/mRNA candidates, using semi-automated instruments.

· Maintain meticulous records in an electronic lab notebook (ELN), draft standard operating procedures (SOPs), and present results at team meetings.

· Independently plan, execute, and interpret experiments, delivering data-driven insights aligned with project timelines and goals.

· Conduct molecular biology tasks, including cloning (e.g., PCR, golden gate, Gibson reactions, etc.), and optimize mRNA IVT protocols for yield and quality.

· Design, produce, and optimize lentiviral vectors, perform transduction experiments, and analyze results to advance research objectives.

· Stay current with advancements in genetic medicine, LNP technology, and molecular biology techniques to inform experimental design.

· Collaborate with antibody discovery/production teams to support pipeline projects and facilitate technology hand-offs.


Qualifications:
Master’s degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, or a related field with 1-3 years of industry experience, OR Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 3+ years of industry experience.

Expertise in mammalian cell culture (suspension and adherent cell lines, primary T cells) and multi-color flow cytometry (panel design, acquisition, and analysis using FlowJo) is required; Hands-on experience with immunological assays (e.g., ELISA, Luminex, cytotoxicity) is highly desirable.

Experience with semi-automated liquid handling systems (e.g., Integra VIAFLO) for high-throughput workflows is highly preferred.

Familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism, FlowJo) is required; working knowledge with statistical and bioinformatics tools (python, R, etc.) is a plus.

Basic understanding of immunology, cancer biology, or cell therapy applications is preferred; Prior experience in genetic medicine, CAR-T cell therapy, or RNA therapeutics is a strong plus.

Basic knowledge of nucleic acid characterization (e.g., gel electrophoresis, qPCR), familiarity with molecular biology techniques, including cloning (e.g., Gibson assembly, PCR) and mRNA IVT (e.g., capping, purification), is a strong plus.

Strong organizational and time-management skills with a proven ability to juggle multiple projects.

Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot assays and optimize protocols independently.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills for presenting data and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Willingness to take responsibilities outside of original job description.

The staffing industry has seen an increase in people falsely representing themselves as recruiters to gather personal information from job seekers. For your safety, do not provide sensitive data to anyone you have not spoken with thoroughly and never provide banking information during the application process. Candidate safety is a top priority at Planet Pharma.

Planet Pharma is an equal opportunity employer. It is our practice not to discriminate against any employee or applicant based on any criteria, condition or basis protected by laws or regulations in the locations where we do business. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. We celebrate diversity and are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect. We believe that diversity, equity and inclusion enable us to better meet our mission and values while serving our clients across the globe. If you have a disability or handicap and would like us to accommodate you in any reasonable way, please inform your recruiter, or contact us, so that we can discuss the appropriate alternatives available.

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About South San Francisco, CA

Ready to take the next step in your career journey? Explore our job opportunities in the vibrant area surrounding South San Francisco, California! Known for its proximity to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the bustling tech hub of Silicon Valley, this region offers unrivaled growth potential and a dynamic work environment. With a unique blend of culture, including the renowned SFMOMA art museum, the lively Castro District, and delectable cuisine like the famous sourdough bread at Boudin Bakery, South San Francisco is the perfect place to thrive professionally while enjoying the beauty of nearby parks like Golden Gate Park and the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Join us in discovering the endless possibilities for your career in this enchanting region!

Although this hasn't been an issue at Planet Pharma, the staffing industry has seen an increase in people falsely representing themselves as recruiters to gather personal information from job seekers. For your safety, do not provide sensitive data to anyone you have not spoken with thoroughly and never provide banking information during the application process. Candidate safety is a top priority at Planet Pharma.