Sr Associate Scientist, Analytical Ops

Gilead Sciences • Santa Monica, CA

1d • $115,260 - $149,160

About The Position

Kite’s Analytical Development, Testing and Logistics team is hiring a Senior Associate Scientist, Analytical Ops to design, execute and troubleshoot PCR- and ELISA-based testing and analytical characterization of cell therapy products across development stages. As a technical resource within the Molecular Biology and Impurities testing team, the role works with minimal supervision, leads analytical tasks and projects, and mentors junior colleagues. Additional work, such as critical reagent qualification and Operational Excellence initiatives, is conducted as needed. The position reports to the Manager of the T&L Molecular Biology and Impurities testing team.

Requirements

• At least 3 years of relevant experience with an MS degree in Chemistry, Biology or a related scientific field; or at least 5 years of relevant experience with a BA or BS degree in Chemistry, Biology or a related scientific field.

Nice To Haves

• At least 2 years of hands-on experience with analytical techniques such as qPCR, ddPCR, ELISA, microbiology and cell-based assays.
• In-depth knowledge of ELISA or PCR method development, instruments, method controls and reagent inventory management systems.
• Proficiency with aseptic technique and general laboratory assays, such as cell culture, flow cytometry and molecular biology.
• Understanding of patient material, product and process characterization.
• Demonstrated ability to develop methods, techniques and evaluation criteria, and to interpret experimental results.
• Strong critical thinking, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with close attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, Smartsheet, Prism, JMP and other data analysis applications.
• Highly collaborative, with excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated and comfortable working with minimal direction in a fast-paced environment, adjusting to changing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute non-routine ELISA and/or PCR experiments to support process development and product characterization.
• Develop, qualify, execute and document PCR methods to study and characterize processes used to produce T cell therapies.
• Select appropriate methods and techniques, and develop and refine analytical methods and experimental approaches.
• Troubleshoot analytical methods and instruments; recommend alternatives and research new methods and techniques.
• Analyze and interpret data using advanced analysis software; draw and defend scientific conclusions.
• Support transfer of ELISA and/or PCR assays from method developers to the analytical testing group.
• Perform reagent titration and lot-checking/verification, and maintain the proficiency testing database.
• Review notebooks and verify data to uphold ALCOA+ principles and data integrity.
• Author, review and edit technical documents, including validation protocols and reports and analytical development reports.
• Lead improvement projects, such as Operational Excellence initiatives, within the team.
• Provide user training on instruments and sample analysis, and mentor and cross-train analysts on analytical methods.
• Present results and conclusions in group meetings and communicate effectively with cross-functional partners.

Benefits

• Paid time off.
• Company-sponsored medical, dental, vision and life insurance plans.
• May be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus.
• May be eligible for discretionary stock-based long-term incentives; eligibility may vary by role.

What This Job Offers

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