Scientist I, Analytical Development

About the role

Vaxcyte is a clinical-stage vaccine innovation company dedicated to protecting humankind from bacterial diseases through high-fidelity vaccines. The Analytical Development team is seeking a Scientist I to join their dynamic and innovative environment.

Responsibilities

• 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 to identify likely 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 experimental 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 (role does not carry any formal supervisory accountability).
• 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.
• Manage 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.
• Follow all Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) policies and laboratory safety practices.
• Handle chemicals and biological materials safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Support audit and inspection readiness activities where applicable.

Requirements

• PhD, MS, or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• 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.
• Proven ability to independently troubleshoot non-routine assay and instrument issues using structured root-cause analysis and data-driven decision making.
• Proficient with analytical software, data processing workflows, and statistical tools.
• Strong scientific judgment and attention to detail consistently produces high-quality, inspection-ready documentation.
• Clear and effective written and verbal communication; able to summarize complex data, present recommendations, and collaborate across functions.
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.

Qualifications

• Experience independently driving method development or optimization activities preferred.
• Strong knowledge of analytical chemistry/biochemistry principles with demonstrated application to assay development and control strategies.
• Comprehensive benefits and an equity component are included in the compensation package.
• The salary range is $129,000 – $151,000.

Skills

• Hands-on laboratory experience.
• Strong technical execution.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Independent planning and execution of assigned work.
• Data interpretation and analysis.
• Clear documentation and communication skills.
• Collaborative and inclusive approach.
• Compliance with EHS policies and laboratory safety practices.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits are included in the compensation package.

Pay

The salary range is $129,000 – $151,000.

Schedule

Onsite (5 days per week onsite).