Research Associate II- Contract

If you find science, speed, and helping address serious infectious diseases exhilarating, you have come to the right place.

Individually, we’re skilled, driven, and confident risk-takers. Collectively we're collaborative and accomplished. We're SuperNovas! Together we use our unique experiences, cultures, and learnings to turn innovation into reality while maintaining the highest standards. We value balance, encourage growth, and recognize that you are our most important asset. Build your future with us while bringing innovative vaccines to the world. We have a place for you!

Novavax, Inc (Nasdaq:NVAX) is a biotechnology committed to helping address serious infectious diseases globally through the discovery, development and delivery of innovative vaccines to patients around the world. We have more than a decade of experience contending with some of the world’s most devastating diseases, and we are here to make a difference. Hard-won lessons and significant advances illustrate that our proven technology based on solid science tested by decades of research, has tremendous potential to make a substantial contribution to public health worldwide.

Job Summary

This contract position will play a key role in the recombinant protein production and analysis of the protein. Qualified individuals are expected to maintain insect cell culture and analyze the recombinant proteins using ELISA or other analytical methods. In addition, the candidate might participate in the process development of small to large-scale (2-250L) vaccine or therapeutic protein production using stirred tank bioreactors. This position will be based in Gaithersburg, MD
Essential Functions

• Perform cell amplification of suspension-based insect cells related shaker flasks and bioreactors.

• Prepare insect cell culture media and feed solutions and record all calculations and necessary information in specified format.

• Assist PC studies as needed

• Maintain an up-to-date working knowledge of the various assays like ELISA, plaque assay, SDS-PAGE, Western Blot, etc.

• Analyze protein concentration by ELISA, and confirm protein expression by SDS-PAGE, Western Blot and other methods.

• Perform inoculation, infection, sampling, and harvest processes related to shaker flasks and bioreactors.

• Maintenance of accurate records of any analytical assays and cell culture operations.

• Assist in the writing, reviewing, and editing of technical reports.

• Assist in the maintenance of department records and material inventories.

• Maintenance of the laboratory and ordering of supplies.

• Maintains laboratory equipment by monitoring calibration dates, updating supervisor when service is necessary, installation dates, and effects to the production schedule.

• Track and maintain lab supplies by inventorying stock, notifying supervisor or designated person before supplies run low, verify receipt of supplies, restock lab, and discard expired reagents regularly.

• Maintain record keeping for duties performed

• Perform other related duties as required

• Cell Culture activities require periodic weekend/evening/early morning work. Candidate must be flexible in time management.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent sterile technique in insect and/or mammalian cell culture.

• Knowledge in principles and practice of current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) from development or commercial applications.

• Previous experience in analytical and molecular biology assays (such as TCID50, plaque assay, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, Western blot, Rapid Titer, etc.) strongly encouraged

• Ability to analyze and determine the applicability of laboratory data to draw conclusions and to make appropriate recommendations.

• Demonstrate interpersonal, technical aptitude, and problem-solving skills.

• Effectively contribute to a team environment with safety at the forefront.

• Flexible availability including weekends and holidays.

• Experience with multi-tasking and organizational skills.

• Show proficiency in verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Ability to troubleshoot, identify root causes, and systematically resolve problems.

• Proficient in Window based software to include Excel, PowerPoint and Word.

Education, Experience, Licenses & Certifications

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field

• 2 - 3 years of experience in a research and development laboratory related to pharmaceutical industry operations is preferred

Novavax offers a base salary, annual bonus, equity grants, professional career development/growth opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, Rx, STD, LTD, Life, Optional Life, 401(k) plan.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Novavax is an equal employment opportunity employer. Employment and advancement opportunities are available to all individuals on an at-will basis, regardless of their race, color, national origin, religion, ancestry, citizenship status, military or veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, protective hairstyle, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.