Associate Scientist I – Research

Position Overview

Viltis is seeking a motivated Associate Scientist I – Research to support the development of innovative bacterial polysaccharide conjugate vaccines for one of our biotechnology clients in San Carlos, California.

This hands-on laboratory position will focus on polysaccharide-protein conjugation, protein and polysaccharide purification, analytical characterization, and vaccine research activities.

The ideal candidate will have a foundation in biochemistry, protein chemistry, or analytical laboratory techniques, along with experience performing laboratory experiments and documenting scientific results.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine and non-routine laboratory experiments following established protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Prepare laboratory buffers, reagents, and materials to support research and development activities.
• Execute multistep polysaccharide-protein conjugation reactions using click chemistry and other relevant conjugation techniques.
• Purify and process polysaccharides, proteins, and conjugates using techniques including FPLC chromatography, tangential flow filtration (TFF), dialysis, diafiltration, organic solvent extraction, acid treatment, and microfluidization.
• Characterize proteins, polysaccharides, and conjugates using SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, ELISA, colorimetric assays, and chromatography-based analytical methods.
• Support analytical development, stability studies, and process optimization activities.
• Assist with evaluating polysaccharide activation chemistries and their effects on conjugation performance.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data and communicate findings to scientific team members.
• Maintain accurate and organized laboratory records using electronic laboratory notebooks, including Benchling.
• Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Support laboratory operations, including inventory management, ordering supplies, and coordinating equipment maintenance.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality, Regulatory, and other cross-functional teams to support development objectives.
• Prepare technical summaries, contribute to scientific reports, and present experimental findings during team meetings.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures, good documentation practices, and applicable quality standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• At least one year of relevant industry laboratory experience, or two relevant internships or comparable laboratory experiences. Other equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Hands-on experience with fundamental laboratory techniques, including precision pipetting, sample preparation, and biochemical assays.
• Familiarity with SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, chromatography, or other protein characterization methods.
• Foundational understanding of protein and polysaccharide chemistry, purification processes, and analytical testing.
• Ability to independently follow established experimental procedures and accurately document laboratory results.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and scientific problem-solving abilities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting vaccine development, biologics research, or pharmaceutical R&D.
• Hands-on experience with polysaccharide-protein conjugation or click chemistry.
• Experience with FPLC chromatography, tangential flow filtration (TFF), dialysis, or diafiltration.
• Familiarity with ELISA, colorimetric plate-based assays, and chromatography-based characterization.
• Experience with protein purification, polysaccharide processing, or downstream development.
• Familiarity with Benchling or other electronic laboratory notebook systems.
• Experience working in a GLP, GMP, or other regulated laboratory environment.
• Exposure to analytical method development, stability testing, or process optimization.

Work Environment

• Full-time, laboratory-based position in San Carlos, California.
• Approximately 80% or more of working time will be spent performing hands-on laboratory activities.
• Onsite attendance required approximately four to five days per week.
• Work closely with scientific and cross-functional development teams.