Research Fellow Full-time

Research Associate, Biologics FormulationVarda Space Industries is seeking a motivated Research Associate to provide critical laboratory support for our Biologics Formulation team. This role will focus on preparation of stock solutions, maintenance of laboratory equipment, and execution of analytical testing to support ongoing protein formulation development activities. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in biopharmaceutical laboratory operations and familiarity with protein characterization techniques.Laboratory Operations & Supply Chain SupportPrepare and maintain stock solutions for formulation development activitiesManage laboratory chemical inventory and coordinate with supply chain to ensure uninterrupted operationsMonitor equipment status and maintain laboratory instruments in working orderExecute solution preparation according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)Support laboratory organization and cleanliness to maintain GLP-ready environmentAnalytical Testing & Sample PreparationConduct analytical characterization of protein formulationsPrepare reagents, buffers, and sample sets in advance to ensure experiments run on schedulePerform routine calibration, qualification, and preventive maintenance on laboratory instrumentsMaintain accurate, GxP-compliant records in laboratory notebooks and electronic systemsCollaborate with Scientists on the design, setup, and pull-points of stability studiesTeam CollaborationWork closely with formulation scientists to anticipate laboratory needsCommunicate inventory requirements and potential supply issues proactivelyParticipate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiativesBasic QualificationsBachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, or related field1-3 years of experience in biopharmaceutical or academic research laboratory settingsHands-on experience with protein preparation and handlingKnowledge of basic analytical techniques for protein characterizationStrong attention to detail and ability to follow SOPs preciselyExcellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple prioritiesEffective written and verbal communication skillsProficiency with electronic laboratory notebooks and data management systemsPreferred Skills and ExperienceMaster's degree in Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, or related fieldExperience in formulation development or protein drug product developmentFamiliarity with biophysical characterization instruments (DLS, viscometry, capillary electrophoresis)Previous experience working in GLP-compliant environmentsKnowledge of monoclonal antibodies or therapeutic proteinsPay RangePay range: $28 - $45/per hourThis role is on-site in El Segundo, CALeveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performanceYou will be eligible for incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awardsBenefitsVarda offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support health, financial well-being, and a high-quality workplace experience. Below is an overview of what full-time employees receive (at this time, interns receive a subset of benefits):Health & WellnessFlexible PTO policy + 12 paid holidays100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA optionsVoluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance$120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses12 weeks of parental leave (with supplemental disability leave for CA mothers)Family building, pregnancy, parenting and menopause benefits via Maven ClinicSponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependentsFinancial & RetirementSubstantial incentive equity in a fully funded space start-up401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested)$20/pay period cell phone reimbursementRelocation support for new hires, if neededWorkplace Experience & PerksFully stocked kitchen with lunch provided daily and dinner provided twice weeklyCompany and team-bonding events, happy hours and mission-success celebrationsComplimentary EV chargingITAR RequirementsVarda, like all employers, must ensure that its employees working in the United States are lawfully authorized to work in the U.S. Additionally, our employees are exposed to and have access to certain export-controlled items. Because our employees are provided access to export-controlled items, our policy is to only hire "U.S. persons" who are permitted to have access to our technology without an export license. "US person" means: U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) (i.e., individual admitted to the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum).E-Verify StatementVarda Space Industries, Inc. participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. The E-Verify program is an Internet-based employment eligibility verification system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Learn more about the E-Verify program.E-Verify Notice Right To Work Notice