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Associate Scientist I, Analytical Development

San Carlos, California, United States

Join our Mission to Protect Humankind!

Vaxcyte is a clinical-stage vaccine innovation company engineering high-fidelity vaccines to protect humankind from the consequences of bacterial diseases, which have serious and costly health consequences when left unchecked. Working to eradicate or treat bacterial infections such as invasive pneumococcal disease, Group A Strep, and Shigella is just the beginning. Our path to success is clear and well-defined, and Vaxcyte is set up to go the distance. 
 
WHAT we do is every bit as important as HOW we do it! Our work together is guided by four enduring core values:
 
*RETHINK CONVENTION: We bring creative and intellectual diversity to every facet of the work we do in order to innovate and re-innovate the way vaccines are delivered.
 
*AIM HIGH: We embody our collectively audacious goal to courageously make the most complex biologics ever attempted to protect humankind.
 
*LEAD WITH HEART: Everyone leads at Vaxcyte with a kindness-first, inclusive approach to collaboration and vigorous debate that advances our business objectives.
 
*MODEL EXCELLENCE:  The magnitude of our challenge requires our shared commitment to demonstrating integrity, accountability, equality and clarity across communications and decision making.

Summary:

Vaxcyte has an exciting opportunity for an energetic and talented individual to join our Analytical Development team. The Associate Scientist I, Analytical Development, will support analytical testing activities for biologics/vaccine development programs. This role is responsible for executing routine and non-routine analytical assays using modern analytical techniques, maintaining laboratory equipment and materials, and supporting overall laboratory operations in compliance with company safety and quality standards. This position is ideal for an early-career scientist seeking hands-on experience in a fast-paced analytical laboratory environment.

Essential Functions:

Analytical Testing & Data Generation

  • Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using modern analytical methods (e.g., HPLC/UPLC, SEC, CE, UV-Vis, ELISA, electrophoresis, plate-based assays, and other biochemical or biophysical techniques).
  • Prepare samples, reagents, standards, and buffers according to established protocols.
  • Execute assays following approved methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Accurately document experimental procedures, observations, and results in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems.
  • Perform basic data analysis and assist in summarizing results for review by senior staff.
  • Troubleshoot routine assay and instrument issues with guidance as needed.

Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation

  • Coordinate instrument service and maintenance activities as required.
  • Manage inventory of laboratory supplies, reagents, and consumables; assist with ordering and restocking.
  • Support laboratory organization and cleanliness in accordance with safety and regulatory standards.
  • Assist in drafting or revising SOPs and technical documents as needed.

Safety & Compliance

  • Follow all company environmental health and safety (EHS) policies and laboratory best practices.
  • Handle chemicals and biological materials safely and in compliance with applicable regulations.
  • Ensure proper waste disposal and adherence to hazardous material handling procedures.
  • Support inspection readiness and compliance activities where applicable (e.g., GLP/GMP).

Requirements: 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline with 0-2 relevant laboratory experience in analytical development, QC, or related field. Other combinations of education and/or experience may be considered.
  • Basic understanding of analytical chemistry or biochemistry principles.
  • Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation and data analysis software.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to follow detailed instructions and maintain accurate documentation.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Attention to detail and excellent skills in record keeping / documentation. Critical thinking and ability to analyze data
  • Ability to work independently on routine tasks and collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Ability to work in a laboratory environment for extended periods.
  • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
Reports to: Director, Analytical Development
 
Location: San Carlos, CA
 
Compensation:
The compensation package will be competitive and includes comprehensive benefits and an equity component.
 
Salary Range: $84,000 - $98,000 (SF Bay Area). Salary ranges for non-California locations may vary.
 
Relocation: 
This role is not eligible for relocation assistance. 
 
#LI-JN1

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

 

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