Scientist, Research Scientist, Clinical Research

Job Title:

Scientist 2

Job Description

We are seeking a talented scientist with a strong foundation in biochemical, biophysical, and analytical sciences to join the Method Development and Transfer team. In this role, you will design and develop assays to characterize key components that support new reagents across our product portfolio. Working as part of a cross-functional team, your technical expertise and rigorous scientific approach will drive the rapid development, qualification, and transfer of analytical methods that enable high-quality product manufacturing and release.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize analytical methods for oligonucleotides, enzymes, and liquid reagent consumables; experience with HPLC and LC-MS strongly preferred.

• Contribute to analytical method validation and transfer; prior clinical product analysis experience is beneficial but not required.

• Partner with scientists across Development, QC, and Manufacturing to design robust QC assays and ensure new product readiness.

• Conduct method qualification and prepare documentation to support transfer into regulated manufacturing environments.

• Select, qualify, and maintain analytical instrumentation and associated software.

• Define process requirements, including instrumentation, personnel training, documentation, and software needs.

• Provide technical leadership in product and process development, including design, troubleshooting, and data analysis.

• Plan and execute laboratory research activities, ensuring high scientific rigor.

• Collaborate routinely with cross-functional teams to drive program success.

• May supervise QC or Research Associates.

• Responsibilities listed are essential but not exhaustive; duties may evolve with business needs.

Essential Skills

• Demonstrated ability to develop QC methods for liquid reagents used in complex biological assays.

• Expertise with several of the following techniques: HPLC, SEC, CE, GC, GC-MS, LC-MS, MALDI-TOF, SDS-PAGE.

• Background in analytical characterization of enzymes and oligonucleotides.

• Experience in method qualification and transferring QC processes into Manufacturing.

• Strong ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Knowledge in molecular biology, chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and quality control.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• BS or MS in a relevant scientific discipline with 3–5 years of industry experience.

• Familiarity with next-generation sequencing platforms is a plus.

• Experience working with databases is a plus.

• Experience in regulated and/or GMP environments is a plus.

Work Environment

100% Onsite - Regular Shift (8am-5pm).

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $35.50 - $44.25/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.

Final date to receive applications

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 3, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccom (%20actalentaccom) for other accommodation options.