Summary:

Vaxcyte is looking for a highly skilled, motivated, and creative analytical scientist to join Vaxcyte’s Vaccine Product Development organization as Scientist I (Contract) within Protein Development and Clinical Manufacturing. The Analytical Scientist I will assume a critical role of development and executing the key analytical methods to support the measurement of titer, impurities and product quality for in process intermediates. The successful candidate will support the set up of analytical capabilities within protein process development group, development/optimization and qualification of in process analytical methods and apply the methods for process characterization. This position is for a scientific role which will be mostly lab based, this role will require excellent scientific judgment, independence, rigor and thorough record keeping.

Essential Functions:

• Method Development & Optimization: Establish and optimize analytical methods for biologics, including HPLC (SEC, IEX/AEX), GFP assays, and protein quantification.
• High-Throughput Automation: Design and implement automated workflows using liquid handling and robotic platforms (e.g., Tecan, Big Tuna) to enable high-throughput sample processing and buffer exchange.
• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Acquire and interpret complex data sets for lysate activity and protein characterization; provide actionable insights for process development studies.
• Laboratory Execution: Perform precise sample preparation and plate-based assays with a focus on high accuracy and low %CV.
• Collaborative Design: Partner with cross-functional SMEs to design experiments, troubleshoot instrumentation, and advance novel analytical techniques.
• Reporting & Documentation: Maintain rigorous documentation in Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs) such as Benchling; present data-driven results at group meetings and contribute to technical reports.
• Project Ownership: Work independently to manage assigned tasks, from initial method development through to routine sample testing and troubleshooting.

Requirements: 

• Education: PhD with 1-2 yrs experience, or B.S in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with minimum 8 years relevant industry experience; MS with minimum 5 years of industry experience.
• Technical Proficiency: Extensive hands-on experience with AEX/SEC-HPLC ,  GFP assays , and automated platforms like Big Tuna.
• Analytical Rigor: Demonstrated ability to perform reliable data analysis and interpret results within the context of process characterization and regulatory guidelines.
• Problem Solving: Strong critical thinking skills with a proven track record of troubleshooting complex instrumentation and assay variations.
• Soft Skills: A proactive team player with excellent communication skills and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative laboratory environment.
• Innovation: A natural curiosity for applying new technologies and scientific creativity to solve complex analytical challenges.