Sr. Associate Scientist, Biology

Who we are: 

Maravai LifeSciences translates extraordinary science into everyday miracles, helping biotech, biopharma, and life sciences companies everywhere deliver novel vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. We are global leaders in providing products and services within the fields of nucleic acid production and biologics safety testing to many of the world's leading biopharma, vaccine, diagnostics, and cell and gene therapy companies.  

At Maravai, we believe that diverse perspectives are the foundation of innovation. Through an inclusive and equitable culture where every team member is inspired to bring their best selves to work, we cultivate an environment in which we can lead together, providing differentiated value to our customers, and enabling the miracles of science. For over 35 years, Maravai’s portfolio companies have served as a catalyst for innovative, lifesaving technology for humanity. Pioneering nucleotide research since its inception, we are now leading the way in the rapidly expanding mRNA market. 

Your next role as a Miracle Maker 

Maravai LifeSciences is seeking a #MiracleMaker to join our Department team as a Sr. Research Associate, Biology. As a Sr. Research Associate you will be responsible for developing cell-based assays to support screening and characterization of novel mRNA products, focusing on transfection properties such as protein expression, immunogenicity, and half-life. This role involves designing experiments, troubleshooting technical challenges, and delivering high-quality data to advance mRNA therapeutic platforms, working collaboratively within a team of scientists.

How you will make an impact: 

• Develop and troubleshoot cell-based assays for evaluating transfected mRNA function.
• Optimize and perform assay readouts such as reporter gene expression, protein expression, and qPCR.
• Culture and maintain a variety of cell types, including cell lines and primary cells.
• Analyze, summarize, and present data to supervisors and at team meetings.
• Explore and integrate new technologies to improve assay sensitivity, throughput, and reliability.
• Work with a team of scientists to design and perform experiments using cell lines, reporter cells, and primary cells with the goal of evaluating transfected mRNA properties including protein expression, immunogenicity, half-life, and other characteristics.
• Contribute to strategic R&D planning by proposing innovative approaches to mRNA product evaluation.
• Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records in accordance with company protocols.
• Prepare technical reports, publications, and regulatory documentation.
• Develop and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new assays and techniques.
• Design experimental workflows for mRNA screening campaigns, ensuring robust and reproducible data generation.
• Evaluate experimental data, troubleshoot technical challenges, and recommend actionable solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including bioinformatics, chemistry, and clinical research.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
• Troubleshoot and provide solutions for technical challenges, ensuring timely project progress.
• Mentor and train junior associates and interns on laboratory techniques and best practices.
• Perform other functions and duties as required

 The skills and experience that you will bring: 

• BS degree in a biology-related discipline and 5+ years of industry experience in cell culture laboratories, or equivalent preferred or Master’s degree with 3-5 years of related experience.
• Hands-on experience in developing, designing, and performing cell-based assays is required.
• Expertise in tissue culture and cell line maintenance.
• Proficiency in immunoassays, including ELISA and MSD.
• Experience with reporter assay readouts such as luciferase and fluorescence.
• Experience working with primary cells, such as PBMCs and hepatocytes, is a plus.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools, including Excel, JMP, and GraphPad Prism.
• Self-motivated with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet project deadlines