Research Associate, Formulation Development

Looking to join a passionate team dedicated to developing and manufacturing life-saving biopharmaceuticals? Avid Bioservices is a leading clinical and commercial biologics CDMO focused on creating innovative solutions to meet the needs of our clients and improve patient outcomes.

Your Role:
The Research Associate, Formulation Development independently plans and executes formulation-development studies supporting protein-based biologics, including monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), across preclinical and clinical programs. Applying advanced scientific knowledge acquired through a specialized course of study, the role interprets formulation and stability data, investigates atypical results, and recommends scientifically supported next steps. Working with limited day-to-day supervision, the Research Associate owns assigned studies and deliverables and serves as a technical resource to development teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Independently plan and execute formulation-development studies, including buffer and excipient preparation, protein concentration measurements and diafiltration, vial fills, stability studies, and analytical characterization, within established program objectives.
• Generate and interpret analytical data such as pH, conductivity, protein concentration, turbidity, viscosity, SEC-HPLC, CEX, and icIEF, applying scientific judgment to evaluate results.
• Investigate atypical or unexpected formulation and stability results, assess data quality and validity, and recommend scientifically supported next steps.
• Troubleshoot routine formulation, method, sample, and instrument issues and determine appropriate technical resolutions within the role’s authority.
• Author and revise protocols, technical reports, development summaries, and investigation documentation to maintain data integrity and traceability.
• Present formulation conclusions and recommendations to Process Development and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of formulation approaches, laboratory efficiency, data quality, and turnaround time.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a biological or physical science, such as biochemistry or chemistry, providing the advanced knowledge required to perform the formulation-development work.
• One or more years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience with demonstrated working knowledge of scientific principles, or equivalent experience gained through advanced scientific coursework or internships.
• Demonstrated ability to apply scientific principles to plan studies, interpret data, investigate atypical results, and recommend technical next steps.
• Hands-on experience with protein-based biologics, formulation development, protein purification, or analytical characterization.

• Master's degree in biochemistry, chemistry, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and stability study design.
• Experience with SEC-HPLC, CEX, icIEF, or comparable analytical characterization techniques.
• Experience authoring protocols, technical reports, or development summaries.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: 

This role is a full-time, exempt, onsite position in Tustin, CA. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. unless otherwise stated by Supervisor. The employee must also have the ability to work overtime and/or weekends when necessary.

Compensation:  

We offer competitive compensation packages for this role, including a base salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off. 

The compensation range for this role is $70,304 to $80,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, we offer opportunities for career growth and development as well as a supportive and inclusive work environment. 

Who you are:  

• You have a "bring it on!" team player approach and an unshakable positive attitude, always ready to tackle anything that comes your way.
• Your written and verbal skills are out of this world, and you communicate with clarity and confidence.
• You have exceptional multitasking skills and an unparalleled attention to detail that ensure the smooth running of everything.
• You are a master at building relationships, capable of establishing connections with anyone, be it team members, clients, vendors, or suppliers.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:  

In this dynamic role, expect a blend of regular activities like sitting, standing, and walking, with occasional physically engaging tasks such as lifting objects up to 25 pounds. The work environment might expose you to electrical shocks, toxic chemicals, vibrations, or loud noise levels occasionally. However, reasonable accommodations are available to enable individuals with different abilities to perform effectively, ensuring a supportive and adaptable work setting. Your visual acuity, including close, distance, and color vision, will be essential in navigating through the diverse day-to-day demands of this position.