(CW) Research Associate
About The Position
The Therapeutics Process Development & Characterization (TPDC) group is seeking a highly motivated temporary Research Associate I/II to support biologics purification and analytical characterization, with a primary focus on enzymes, and additional exposure to other therapeutic proteins, antibodies, and peptide-based modalities. This is a primarily laboratory-based role involving hands-on purification and characterization of biologics using established chromatography and filtration workflows. The successful candidate will support multiple early-stage and exploratory research programs across BioMarin. Occasional responsibilities may include basic instrument and equipment maintenance in support of laboratory operations. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and able to work independently with guidance in a fast-paced research environment.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- 0–2 years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience (academic or industry).
- Bachelor’s degree with 2+ years of relevant experience, or
- Master’s degree with 1–2 years of relevant experience.
- Prior experience with biologics purification (enzymes, proteins, antibodies, or peptides) strongly preferred.
- Experience with FPLC/HPLC and common protein analytical techniques is highly desirable.
Nice To Haves
- Familiarity with AKTA Pure/Avant or similar chromatography instrumentation.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and reliable documentation practices.
- Ability to follow established workflows and troubleshoot with guidance.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office; familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism, JMP) is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Perform purification of recombinant enzymes and other therapeutic biologics, including proteins, antibodies, and peptides, using standard chromatography systems (e.g., AKTA Pure, AKTA Avant).
- Execute purification workflows including: o Affinity chromatography o Ion exchange chromatography (AEX/CEX) o Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) o Hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) o Desalting and buffer exchange
- Perform concentration and buffer exchange using tangential-flow filtration (TFF) or centrifugal filtration.
- Prepare buffers and reagents according to established protocols.
- Support routine equipment checks, basic instrument maintenance, and troubleshooting as needed.
- Perform analytical assays to assess purity, identity, and concentration of biologics, including: o SDS-PAGE, CE-SDS o SEC-HPLC, RP-HPLC o UV/Vis spectrophotometry o Other established protein or peptide analytical methods as required
- Execute established methods with an emphasis on data quality, reproducibility, and documentation.
- Assist with basic data analysis and communication of results to project teams.
- Maintain accurate and complete electronic and/or paper laboratory notebooks.
- Follow established SOPs and document deviations with guidance.
- Communicate results, observations, and progress updates clearly within the team.
- Contribute to a safe, clean, and well-organized laboratory environment in compliance with BioMarin safety standards.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
