Associate Scientist, Protein Engineering & Binder Discovery Support

Kite Pharma•Foster City, CA

20h•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated and versatile Associate Scientist to join the Protein Engineering & Binder Optimization group within Kite Research. This role is designed to support binder discovery and optimization campaigns through hands‑on laboratory execution across protein expression, screening, and analytical workflows. The Associate Scientist will execute key experimental components of binder campaigns, including protein production, library handling, screening assays, and data generation. This position is well suited for an individual who enjoys contributing across multiple stages of discovery workflows, values rigor and reproducibility, and thrives in a fast‑paced, collaborative research environment.

Requirements

Master’s degree with 2+ years of relevant scientific experience OR Bachelor’s degree with 4+ years of relevant scientific experience
Strong attention to detail and demonstrated commitment to data quality and reproducibility
Ability to manage multiple experimental workflows in parallel in a fast‑paced laboratory environment
Experience working in electronic lab notebooks and sample/LIMS systems

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Protein Science, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related discipline
Hands‑on laboratory experience in protein expression, purification, screening, or biochemical assays
Experience with library‑based screening or selection methods (e.g., phage, yeast, or related display technologies)
Familiarity with protein characterization and binding assays (e.g., ELISA, SPR/BLI, SDS‑PAGE, SEC)
Prior experience supporting protein engineering or binder discovery programs

Responsibilities

Execute hands‑on experimental workflows supporting binder discovery and optimization campaigns, including library handling, selections, screening assays, and hit triage.
Support screening and down‑selection efforts by generating high‑quality binding, specificity, and functional data.
Perform routine experimental troubleshooting and communicate issues or observations to Scientists leading campaigns.
Perform high‑throughput protein expression and purification to support screening, characterization, and downstream assays.
Conduct routine protein analytical assays (e.g., SDS‑PAGE, SEC, ELISA, concentration and quality assessments).
Prepare protein samples for downstream applications such as SPR/BLI, functional assays, or cell‑based screening.
Support multiple discovery programs in parallel by reliably executing experimental tasks that enable campaign progress.
Work closely with Scientists to ensure experimental outputs align with screening strategies, timelines, and data needs.
Assist with sample tracking, data handoff, and coordination with cross‑functional partners as needed.
Maintain accurate, timely experimental documentation using electronic lab notebooks and sample‑tracking/LIMS systems.
Ensure reproducibility, traceability, and data integrity across all assigned experiments.
Adhere to laboratory safety, quality, and best‑practice standards.
Contribute to the robustness and scalability of discovery workflows through consistent execution and protocol adherence.
Identify opportunities to improve throughput, consistency, or data quality and share observations with the team.
Participate in protocol updates and workflow refinements as discovery platforms evolve.