Scientist II (Contract), Analytical Development

Summary:

Vaxcyte is looking for an energetic and talented individual to join our Analytical Development team. Primary responsibility for the incumbent will be to support the developmental activities currently ongoing in the laboratory as assigned.

Essential Functions:

• Contribute to method development, optimization, and qualification/validation readiness activities.
• Design and execute experiments to evaluate critical method parameters and define appropriate system suitability and control strategies.
• Troubleshoot assay and instrument performance issues using a structured approach; interpret data to identify likely root causes, implement corrective actions, and document outcomes and recommendations.
• Support and/or execute method transfer activities, including protocol preparation, training support, execution at receiving labs, and resolution of transfer issues.
• Support lab management and operations, including sample and inventory tracking.
• Author and revise analytical methods, SOPs, protocols, and technical reports; ensure clear documentation of experimental rationale, results, and conclusions for internal review and stakeholder communication.

Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation:

• Coordinate routine instrument maintenance and service activities; interface with vendors and lab management team as needed and support timely issue resolution.
• Ensure laboratory organization, cleanliness, and compliant material labeling/storage practices.
• Manage inventory of reagents, standards, and consumables; initiate procurement, track critical supplies, and support forecasting to avoid stockouts.

Team Collaboration:

• Partner effectively with cross-functional teams to define analytical plans, meet project timelines, and deliver high-quality outputs.
• Communicate experimental progress, data interpretation, and emerging risks clearly; propose mitigation plans and align next steps with stakeholders.
• Contribute to a compliant, safety-focused, and scientifically rigorous lab culture; model good documentation practices and data integrity expectations.
• Train and mentor junior staff/new team members on analytical assays, workflows, and troubleshooting; provide day-to-day technical guidance and feedback.

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/biophysical techniques).
• Execute assays in accordance with approved methods, SOPs, and applicable quality standards (GLP/GMP as applicable); identify and troubleshoot common issues.
• Perform data processing and interpretation; summarize results, trends, and potential risks, and escalate complex findings for review and decision-making.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems; contribute to clear technical communications to project and cross-functional stakeholders.

Safety & Compliance:

• Follow all Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) policies and laboratory safety practices.
• Handle chemicals and biological materials safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Ensure proper waste disposal and adherence to hazardous material handling procedures.
• Support audit and inspection readiness activities where applicable.

Requirements: 

• PhD, MS or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline. PhD with 2–5 years; MS with 7+ years; BS with 10+ years of relevant industry experience in analytical development, QC, or related field.
• Strong hands-on experience with multiple analytical techniques, such as UV-Vis, HPLC, CE, SDS-PAGE, icIEF, liquid chromatography, enzyme kinetics, colorimetric and fluorescent plate-based assays, ELISA, Western Blot, and PCR.
• Experience independently driving method development or optimization activities preferred.
• Strong knowledge of analytical chemistry/biochemistry principles with demonstrated application to assay development and control strategies.
• Proven ability to independently troubleshoot non-routine assay and instrument issues using structured root-cause analysis and data-driven decision making.
• Proficient with analytical software, data processing workflows, and statistical tools.
• Strong scientific judgment and attention to detail; consistently produces high-quality, inspection-ready documentation.
• Ability to independently plan and prioritize work, manage multiple projects, and meet timelines with minimal supervision.
• Clear and effective written and verbal communication; able to summarize complex data, present recommendations, and collaborate across functions.
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused laboratory culture.
• Other combinations of education and/or experience may be considered.