Scientist I, Analytical Development

Job title: Scientist I, Analytical Development

About the Role Vaxcyte is seeking a Scientist I, Analytical Development to execute analytical testing and contribute to method development for biologics/vaccine programs. The role involves performing routine and non-routine analytical assays, troubleshooting, and collaborating with cross-functional teams while maintaining clear documentation and following quality standards.

What You'll Do

• 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, identify 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.
• 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.
• Partner effectively with cross-functional teams to define analytical plans, meet project timelines, and deliver high-quality outputs; communicate progress and data interpretation to direct team members and project leads; flag emerging risks for senior review.
• Contribute to a compliant, safety-focused, and scientifically rigorous lab culture, model good documentation practices and data integrity expectations.
• May assist in orienting new team members to assays and workflows under the direction of senior staff.

What We're Looking For

• PhD with 0-2 years; MS with 5+ years; BS with 8+ years of relevant industry experience in analytical development, QC, or related field. Other combinations of education and/or experience may be considered.
• Strong hands-on experience with multiple analytical techniques, such as liquid chromatography (H/UPLC) and/or mass spectrometry (LC-MS), CE, SDS-PAGE, icIEF, enzyme kinetics, colorimetric and fluorescent plate-based assays, ELISA, Western Blot, and PCR.
• Experience independently driving method development or optimization activities preferred.

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.

Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation

• Routine instrument maintenance scheduling and vendor coordination as directed.
• 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.

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.