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Sr. Associate Scientist, Biology

San Diego, CA USA

Who we are: 

Maravai LifeSciences translates extraordinary science into everyday miracles, helping biotech, biopharma, and life sciences companies everywhere deliver novel vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. We are global leaders in providing products and services within the fields of nucleic acid production and biologics safety testing to many of the world's leading biopharma, vaccine, diagnostics, and cell and gene therapy companies.  

At Maravai, we believe that diverse perspectives are the foundation of innovation. Through an inclusive and equitable culture where every team member is inspired to bring their best selves to work, we cultivate an environment in which we can lead together, providing differentiated value to our customers, and enabling the miracles of science. For over 35 years, Maravai’s portfolio companies have served as a catalyst for innovative, lifesaving technology for humanity. Pioneering nucleotide research since its inception, we are now leading the way in the rapidly expanding mRNA market. 

Your next role as a Miracle Maker 

Maravai LifeSciences is seeking a #MiracleMaker to join our Department team as a Sr. Research Associate, Biology. As a Sr. Research Associate you will be responsible for developing cell-based assays to support screening and characterization of novel mRNA products, focusing on transfection properties such as protein expression, immunogenicity, and half-life. This role involves designing experiments, troubleshooting technical challenges, and delivering high-quality data to advance mRNA therapeutic platforms, working collaboratively within a team of scientists.

How you will make an impact: 

  • Develop and troubleshoot cell-based assays for evaluating transfected mRNA function.
  • Optimize and perform assay readouts such as reporter gene expression, protein expression, and qPCR.
  • Culture and maintain a variety of cell types, including cell lines and primary cells.
  • Analyze, summarize, and present data to supervisors and at team meetings.
  • Explore and integrate new technologies to improve assay sensitivity, throughput, and reliability.
  • Work with a team of scientists to design and perform experiments using cell lines, reporter cells, and primary cells with the goal of evaluating transfected mRNA properties including protein expression, immunogenicity, half-life, and other characteristics.
  • Contribute to strategic R&D planning by proposing innovative approaches to mRNA product evaluation.
  • Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records in accordance with company protocols.
  • Prepare technical reports, publications, and regulatory documentation.
  • Develop and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new assays and techniques.
  • Design experimental workflows for mRNA screening campaigns, ensuring robust and reproducible data generation.
  • Evaluate experimental data, troubleshoot technical challenges, and recommend actionable solutions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including bioinformatics, chemistry, and clinical research.
  • Adhere to all safety guidelines and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Troubleshoot and provide solutions for technical challenges, ensuring timely project progress.
  • Mentor and train junior associates and interns on laboratory techniques and best practices.
  • Perform other functions and duties as required

 The skills and experience that you will bring: 

  • BS degree in a biology-related discipline and 5+ years of industry experience in cell culture laboratories, or equivalent preferred or Master’s degree with 3-5 years of related experience.
  • Hands-on experience in developing, designing, and performing cell-based assays is required.
  • Expertise in tissue culture and cell line maintenance.
  • Proficiency in immunoassays, including ELISA and MSD.
  • Experience with reporter assay readouts such as luciferase and fluorescence.
  • Experience working with primary cells, such as PBMCs and hepatocytes, is a plus.
  • Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
  • Proficiency in data analysis tools, including Excel, JMP, and GraphPad Prism.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet project deadlines.
  • Demonstrated ability to assess unusual circumstances and provide effective solutions.
  • Strong judgment in selecting methods and adapting scientific techniques to achieve optimal results.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills to present data and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Proven ability to navigate ambiguity and adjust to shifting priorities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Commitment to excellence with a focus on continuous improvement, compliance, and ensuring the highest standards in all processes and deliverables.

 

The anticipated salary range for this position is $80,000 - $85,280  annually.  In addition, highly competitive long-term incentives in the form of company equity, bonus participation and company sponsored benefits are provided as part of the total compensation package.  The salary offer will depend on multiple factors which may include the successful candidate's skills, experience and other qualifications, as well as the location of the role. 

#LI-Onsite

 

The benefits of being a #MiracleMaker: 

  • You have the potential to change, improve, and save lives around the world. 
  • You have the opportunity to be a part owner in Maravai through RSU grants and optional employee stock purchase plans. 
  • We offer comprehensive medical plans and HSA/FSA options. 
  • Fertility & family planning assistance. 
  • A variety of additional optional benefits and insurance options, including pet insurance. 
  • Retirement contributions. 
  • Holidays & Paid Time Off. 

Benefits may vary by region and employment type and do not apply to temporary employees or contractors. See a comprehensive list of benefits at our Benefits & growth site at https://www.maravai.com/careers/benefits-and-growth/ 

To view more opportunities to become a #MiracleMaker, visit our career site at https://www.maravai.com/careers/  

Maravai LifeSciences is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation, and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. 

Click here to view Maravai LifeSciences Privacy Notice 

 

HIRING SCAM ALERT 

Recently, individuals impersonating Maravai LifeSciences Human Resources members have offered fraudulent interviews and job offers to unsuspecting candidates. To help protect you from these scam artists, please be aware that: 

  • Maravai LifeSciences will never interview a candidate over RingCentral, similar messaging apps or social media (e.g. Telegram, Google Hangouts, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, etc.) 
  • Maravai LifeSciences will never send a company check or ask an applicant to pay a fee or purchase at home work/training materials in connection with an application for employment. 
  • Maravai LifeSciences will never provide excess money to an applicant and ask the applicant to write a check for repayment. 

 

 If you have any doubt about a job offer or any other communication purporting to come from Maravai LifeSciences, please reach out to us directly at taops@maravai.com. If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, you can report this activity at: www.iC3.gov or www.stopfraud.gov. 

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