Orbis Clinical is seeking a Temporary Protein Expression Scientist located in Alameda, CA for 12 months.

Job Title: Temporary Protein Expression Scientist

Location: Alameda, CA

Contract: 12 months

Position Summary

The Lead Discovery and Structural Biology Department within company is seeking a highly qualified Protein Expression & Purification Scientist (Contractor) with demonstrated expertise in molecular biology, heterologous protein expression, and protein purification. The successful candidate will contribute to research programs within an industry-leading drug discovery environment leveraging access to state-of-the-art protein expression and purification platforms. Responsibilities include executing expression workflows in baculovirus expression vector systems (BEVS)/insect cells, as well as in E. coli, including high-throughput (HTP) small-scale expression screening, followed by downstream purification and analytical characterization. Experience with biophysical methods is considered an asset.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology workflows, including:
• Cloning, vector design, construct optimization, and sequence verification
• PCR, primer design, restriction‑based, and recombination‑based cloning
• Execute protein expression using:
• BEVS/insect cell systems, including virus generation, amplification, and expression optimization
• E. coli expression, including IPTG‑induced and auto‑induction strategies
• High‑throughput (HTP) small‑scale expression testing for rapid screening of constructs and conditions
• Conduct purification of recombinant proteins using standard chromatographic techniques (affinity, ion exchange, size‑exclusion chromatography).
• Optimize expression constructs, culture conditions, and purification workflows to achieve the required yield, purity, and quality.
• Perform analytical characterization, including SDS‑PAGE, Western blotting, SEC, and other relevant assays.
• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records in accordance with internal documentation standards (experience with Benchling is a plus).
• Communicate experimental results, observations, and recommendations to team members in a clear and timely manner.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety policies and organizational compliance requirements.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Structural Biology, or related field with 3+ years of relevant industry experience, or
• Master’s degree with 1+ year of relevant industry experience
• Strong molecular biology and cloning expertise is required.
• Proven track record of protein expression in BEVS/insect systems and E. coli, including HTP small‑scale expression screening.
• Demonstrated proficiency in chromatographic purification and method development.
• Experience with biophysical characterization techniques (e.g., LC‑MS, SPR, MST, SEC‑MALS, nanoDSF, mass photometry) is preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills across cloning, expression, and purification workflows.
• Ability to work independently while contributing and collaborating effectively with cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet project timelines in a fast‑paced environment.

Work Environment

• This position operates within a dynamic drug discovery setting, offering exposure to cutting‑edge technologies and collaboration with industry‑leading scientists. The role requires routine work in a laboratory environment, including handling biological materials and operating standard laboratory equipment.

Compensation Details:

• Orbis Clinical is an equal opportunity employer that provides a reasonable range of compensation for our positions. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including, but not limited to, skill set, level of experience and specific office location.
• The Pay Range for this position is $40- $48 per hour, can vary depending on employment status.
• Orbis Clinical offers eligible employees health benefits (medical, dental, and vision), employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance, and a partial employer match on a 401(k). 

EEO and Reasonable Accommodation Statement:

Epic Staffing Group is 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, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process, please contact us.

 By applying for this position, you agree that any calls from Orbis Clinical and its subsidiaries may be monitored or recorded for training and quality assurance purposes.