Associate Scientist – Protein Sciences

Kite Pharma•Foster City, CA

1d•$109,650 - $141,900•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to support our Protein Sciences team. This individual will contribute as a hands-on laboratory scientist, executing protein production, purification, and analytical workflows that support multiple CAR-T and cell therapy programs. This is a 100% bench-focused, individual contributor role. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists across Protein Science and Research to generate high-quality data and reagents, while contributing to efficient laboratory operations and experimental execution.

Requirements

Advanced scientific degree (MD, PharmD, PhD) OR Master’s degree with 4+ years of relevant scientific experience OR Bachelor’s degree with 6+ years of relevant scientific experience
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Protein Science, or related field
2–4+ years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience in academic or industry settings
Experience with recombinant protein expression and purification workflows
Hands-on experience with AKTA systems and chromatography methods
Familiarity with protein characterization techniques (SDS-PAGE, HPLC, BLI/Octet, etc.)
Experience with mammalian cell culture and transfections
Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality data generation and documentation
Ability to follow protocols, troubleshoot at the experiment level, and work effectively in a fast-paced lab environment
Strong hands-on bench execution skills
High level of organization and reproducibility
Ability to independently execute experiments with appropriate controls
Collaborative mindset and willingness to support team priorities

Responsibilities

Execute recombinant protein expression and purification workflows across multiple expression systems (e.g., mammalian cell culture, transient transfections)
Perform protein purification using AKTA chromatography systems (affinity, SEC, ion exchange)
Maintain cell cultures and support transfection workflows
Perform biochemical and biophysical characterization of proteins and antibodies, including: SDS-PAGE and Western blot, UPLC/HPLC-based purity assessment, Binding assays (e.g., Octet/BLI)
Document and summarize experimental data clearly to support team decision-making
Perform antibody and protein conjugation workflows with appropriate analytical follow-up
Prepare reagents and materials to support downstream functional assays (e.g., flow cytometry or cell-based assays in collaboration with Cell Biology partners)
Maintain organized lab practices, including reagents, consumables, and shared equipment
Ensure accurate experimental documentation in electronic lab notebooks and LIMS
Follow established SOPs and contribute to maintaining reproducibility and data quality standards
Work closely with cross-functional partners to execute experiments aligned with defined protocols and timelines
Communicate experimental progress and results effectively to project teams