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.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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: