Associate Scientist II (Contract),… at Vaxcyte · San Carlos

Summary:

Vaxcyte is seeking an Associate Scientist II (Contract), Conjugation Development, who will contribute to the development of a robust process for generating the company’s proprietary pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. This role will focus on the synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization of chemically modified polysaccharides and polysaccharide-protein conjugates. The successful candidate will apply a strong foundation in analytical chemistry and laboratory techniques to optimize and troubleshoot processes, while also supporting related areas such as analytical development and stability studies. This position requires strong organizational skills, clear communication, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.

Essential Functions:

• Perform and optimize multi-step syntheses of protein-polysaccharide conjugates.
• Purify polysaccharides and conjugates using methods including dialysis, size-exclusion chromatography, and tangential flow filtration (TFF).
• Analyze polysaccharides and conjugates using methods such as colorimetric assays, HPLC assays, SEC-MALS, and SDS-PAGE, and contribute to method bridging studies and qualification to ensure robustness and consistency.
• Maintain accurate, well-organized experimental records and support data verification and analysis to enable process optimization and reproducibility.
• Assist with troubleshooting of synthesis, purification, and analytical procedures.
• Track inventory of critical reagents and assist with ordering as needed.
• Support maintenance of assigned lab instruments, perform general lab duties, and contribute to training new team members.
• Present experimental results and progress updates at group meetings.
• Contribute to laboratory protocols, reports, and other documentation supporting process development.
• Collaborate effectively with team members and contribute to cross-functional activities.

Requirements: 

• BS degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with minimum 2 years of industry experience, or MS degree with minimum 1 years of industry experience.
• Experience with laboratory-scale protein purification methods such as dialysis, diafiltration, and size-exclusion chromatography; experience with TFF is desirable.
• Working knowledge of analytical methods including colorimetric assays, HPLC, SEC, and SDS-PAGE.
• Hands-on experience with protein conjugation reactions or chemical modification of polysaccharides is desirable.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and record-keeping abilities.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Enthusiasm for learning new skills and applying them to challenges outside of current expertise.
• Commitment to integrity, professionalism, and safety in all aspects of work.