Research Associate II, Discovery Bioscience

Astellas • South San Francisco, CA

19h • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Associate II will be an integral member of Astellas’ Vector Bioscience team, assisting in the development, characterization, and production of AAV vectors. Based in Astellas’ South San Francisco R&D laboratories, this role supports and collaborates with various research and development groups. It is a highly collaborative, laboratory-based, on-site position with reasonably flexible working arrangements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a life science, chemical engineering, or related discipline and 3+ years of experience, or a master’s degree and 1+ years of experience in cell culture and protein purification techniques.
• Hands-on experience using sterile technique to handle and grow mammalian cell lines, including maintenance, cell characterization and differentiation, expansion, and banking.
• Experience with routine molecular biology techniques, including cloning, DNA/RNA/protein isolation, and digital PCR.
• Experience with plasmid preparation.
• Experience in protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Transfection and/or transformation experience with mammalian or bacterial cells.
• Experience with purification and chromatography systems such as AKTA.
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment to meet project goals and timelines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Industry experience.
• Experience working with viruses, especially Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV).

Responsibilities

• Perform cell culture work, including thawing, maintaining, transfecting, and cryopreserving cell lines.
• Produce and purify AAV vectors for various programs.
• Collaborate with other teams to acquire and characterize vectors.
• Document vector characterization and other activities.
• Communicate results and timelines to other functional groups.
• Collaborate in laboratory management and safety activities.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off options, including vacation and sick time, plus national holidays and year-end shutdown.
• 401(k) match and annual company contribution.
• Company-paid life insurance.
• Annual corporate bonus and quarterly sales incentive for eligible positions.
• Long-term incentive plan for eligible positions.
• Company fleet vehicle for eligible positions.
• Referral bonus program.

What This Job Offers

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