Associate Scientist - High‑throughput purification (HTP)

VARITE • Oceanside, CA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

VARITE is seeking an Associate Scientist (Level 26) for a 12-month contract in Oceanside, California. The role supports purification process development during pivotal and commercial development phases, with a focus on high-throughput purification (HTP) of upstream and cell-culture samples and downstream purification characterization studies. The scientist will develop and optimize HTP purification assays using automated platforms such as Tecan and Hamilton, and will help establish, troubleshoot, and refine automated workflows.

The position also contributes to purification process development and characterization through bench-scale chromatography, filtration, and microscale studies. It involves collaboration with upstream, downstream, and other cross-functional colleagues; collection and interpretation of experimental data; and preparation of protocols, reports, and electronic laboratory notebook records. The role is onsite five days per week.

Requirements

• Master’s degree with at least 2 years of relevant industry experience, or bachelor’s degree with at least 4 years of relevant industry experience, in chemical engineering, biochemistry, bioengineering, or a related discipline.
• Expertise developing and executing HTP purification assays, including use of automated liquid-handling systems such as Tecan and Hamilton and microscale chromatography platforms.
• Experience with chromatography, including AKTA or plate-based systems, filtration, and standard downstream techniques.
• Strong analytical, documentation, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Execute high-throughput purification workflows for upstream and cell-culture samples to support process characterization.
• Operate, optimize, and maintain automated liquid-handling systems, including Hamilton and Tecan platforms.
• Develop, qualify, and refine HTP purification assays and microscale purification methods.
• Collaborate with upstream teams to support timely sample processing and data delivery.
• Contribute to experimental design and conduct purification process development and characterization experiments.
• Conduct bench-scale purification studies using chromatography, filtration, and microscale systems.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data in accordance with data integrity expectations.
• Prepare protocols, reports, and electronic laboratory notebook documentation.
• Support implementation of new purification technologies, instrumentation, and platform enhancements.
• Maintain purification laboratory instrumentation readiness and improve workflows.
• Partner with upstream, downstream, and cross-functional colleagues on development and characterization initiatives.
• Follow compliance, training, and safety requirements.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Participation in a company-sponsored retirement savings plan.
• Legal service plans providing access to attorneys for legal advice and representation.
• Potential eligibility for an employee referral bonus.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level