Job Details
Posted 2 October, 2026
Job Id: 631370
Associate Scientist – Biology II
Job Description
I’m looking for a hands-on upstream bioprocess professional to join the Biologics Pilot Lab in Foster City on a contract basis. This is an opportunity to run pilot-scale cell culture processes, solve real-time operational challenges, and support biologics development programs in a highly collaborative environment.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Work directly with pilot-scale upstream operations, including seed train shake flasks, WAVE systems, and 100 L and 500 L single-use bioreactors.
Build broad experience across process execution, troubleshooting, technology transfer, and continuous improvement.
Contribute to biologics programs spanning early- and late-stage development, with visibility into how pilot-scale work supports the broader pipeline.
Enjoy a contract of 12 months from start date, with room to take on more independence quickly in a fast-paced, schedule-driven pilot environment.
What You’ll Do
Prepare media, buffers, and reagents; set up equipment; and support post-run teardown and cleaning.
Execute routine upstream activities, including daily bioreactor sampling, feeding, and end-to-end run support.
Maintain accurate, timely documentation in SOPs, Benchling batch records, run summaries, deviations, observations, and change notes.
Troubleshoot issues during pilot runs and help maintain equipment, inventory, analytical support, and overall lab readiness.
Support technology transfers, monitor process performance, and communicate clear data summaries and conclusions.
What You’ll Bring
Hands-on upstream cell culture experience at bench, pilot, or manufacturing scale (e.g., shake flasks, bioreactors, media and buffer preparation).
Clear technical writing and documentation habits (e.g., SOPs, batch records, run summaries), plus confidence presenting data and conclusions.
An organized, collaborative, solutions-focused approach in a schedule-driven environment, with a strong commitment to safety and data integrity.
Strongly Preferred
Pilot lab, pilot plant, or pilot-scale bioprocess experience, including WAVE systems or single-use bioreactors.
Nice to Have
End-to-end upstream process execution across multiple unit operations.
Technology transfer, manufacturing support, or GMP/GMP-adjacent work.
Education
AA/AS with more than four years of relevant industry experience, or
BS/BE in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field with more than two years of relevant experience.
About the Team
You’ll join a ten-person team of scientists producing pilot-scale biologics material for early and late development programs. The team also troubleshoots and improves processes and introduces new technologies that expand site capability, capacity, and efficiency.
Pay ranges between 45-53/hr based on experience
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, sex, gender identity or expression, disability, age, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations. It is our policy not to discriminate against any applicant or employee, and we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful work environment across all locations in which we operate. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to our mission and enhance our ability to serve clients globally. If you have a disability or require any reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, please inform your recruiter or contact us directly so that we can explore the appropriate arrangements.
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