Research Associate

Senior Research Associate I – Biologics Purification & Characterization (Temporary) BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. – Worldwide Research & Development. Position Type: Temporary, Full‑Time ONSITE. Position Summary: The Therapeutics Process Development & Characterization (TPDC) group is seeking a highly motivated Temporary Senior Research Associate I to support biologics purification and analytical characterization with a primary focus on recombinant enzymes and additional exposure to therapeutic proteins, antibodies, and peptide‑based modalities. This laboratory‑based role requires hands‑on purification and characterization of biologics using established chromatography and filtration workflows. The successful candidate will independently execute purification experiments, troubleshoot technical challenges, analyze experimental data, and provide support to multiple early‑stage research programs across BioMarin, while also maintaining laboratory operations through routine instrument maintenance. Duties & Responsibilities Protein & Biologic Purification Independently perform purification of recombinant enzymes and other therapeutic biologics, including proteins, antibodies, and peptides, using ÄKTA Pure and ÄKTA Avant chromatography systems. Execute and optimize purification workflows: affinity chromatography, ion exchange chromatography (AEX/CEX), size‑exclusion chromatography (SEC), hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC), and desalting/buffer exchange. Perform concentration and buffer exchange using tangential‑flow filtration (TFF), ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF), or centrifugal filtration. Evaluate purification performance and recommend process improvements to enhance yield, purity, and recovery. Troubleshoot chromatography, filtration, and purification processes with minimal supervision. Prepare buffers, reagents, and chromatography columns according to established procedures. Perform routine instrument checks, preventative maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of purification equipment. Analytical Characterization Perform analytical assays to assess purity, identity, concentration, and quality of biologics, including SDS‑PAGE, CE‑SDS, SEC‑HPLC, RP‑HPLC, and UV/Vis spectrophotometry. Interpret analytical data to support purification process optimization and project decision‑making. Analyze experimental results using GraphPad Prism, JMP, Microsoft Excel, or similar software. Communicate experimental findings through technical summaries, presentations, and discussions with cross‑functional project teams. Support analytical method development, qualification, or technology transfer activities as needed. General Laboratory Responsibilities Maintain accurate and complete electronic and/or paper laboratory notebooks. Follow established SOPs and document deviations with guidance. Communicate results, observations, and progress updates clearly within the team. Contribute to a safe, clean, and well‑organized laboratory environment in compliance with BioMarin safety standards. Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 4–6 years of relevant industry experience, or Master's degree in a related scientific discipline with 2–4 years of relevant industry experience. Demonstrated experience purifying recombinant enzymes, proteins, antibodies, or peptide therapeutics. Hands‑on experience operating ÄKTA Pure, ÄKTA Avant, or equivalent FPLC chromatography systems. Experience with protein analytical techniques including SEC‑HPLC, RP‑HPLC, CE‑SDS, SDS‑PAGE, and UV/Vis spectroscopy. Experience with tangential‑flow filtration (TFF) and ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF) is preferred. Desired Skills Experience in protein purification and biologics characterization. Demonstrated ability to independently plan, execute, troubleshoot, and optimize purification experiments. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with excellent attention to detail. Experience with electronic laboratory notebooks (Benchling or similar) and data analysis software such as GraphPad Prism or JMP. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present technical data effectively. Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining high‑quality scientific documentation. Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary research teams. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled 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, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. Safety Responsibility Support the organization’s commitment to environmental protection, injury prevention, and continual improvement of EHS management systems. Actively contribute to a safe and environmentally responsible workplace by identifying hazards, reporting incidents, and participating in EHS initiatives and training. #J-18808-Ljbffr