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Purification Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Purification Scientist

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Purification Scientist The Purification Scientist supports a DNA/RNA purification manufacturing team focused on plasmid and vector processing. In this role, you execute established workflows to ...

Purification Scientist

Boston, MA · On-site

$44 - $46/hr

Biologist - Purification Scientist Client: Eli Lilly and Company Location: Boston, MA (Onsite) Schedule: Monday-Friday | 8:00 AM-5:00 PM (40 hrs/week Position Summary Seeking an early-career ...

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Purification Scientist information

What are Purification Scientists?

Purification Scientists are professionals who specialize in isolating and purifying biological or chemical substances, such as proteins, antibodies, or pharmaceuticals, from complex mixtures. They develop, optimize, and scale up purification processes using techniques like chromatography, filtration, and centrifugation. These scientists often work in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and research laboratories to ensure products are pure, safe, and effective for further research or commercial use.

How much do protein scientists make?

Protein scientists, often working as biochemists or molecular biologists, typically earn a median salary ranging from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Those with advanced degrees and specialized skills in protein purification and analysis tend to earn higher salaries, especially in research or industry settings.

What does a purification scientist do?

A purification scientist is responsible for developing and optimizing methods to isolate and purify chemical compounds, proteins, or other biological materials. They use techniques such as chromatography, filtration, and centrifugation, often working in laboratory or manufacturing settings to ensure product quality and purity. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of laboratory equipment are essential for this role.

Do you need a PhD to be a staff scientist?

A PhD is often preferred for a staff scientist position, especially in research-intensive fields like purification science, but some roles may accept a master's degree with relevant experience. Advanced degrees can enhance qualifications, but industry experience and technical skills are also important for senior scientific roles.

What are some common challenges faced by Purification Scientists, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Purification Scientists often encounter challenges such as optimizing purification protocols for novel proteins, troubleshooting unexpected impurities, and maintaining consistency across large-scale runs. These issues can be addressed by staying up-to-date with the latest chromatography techniques, collaborating closely with upstream and analytical teams, and employing robust troubleshooting and documentation practices. Being proactive in adjusting parameters and communicating effectively with colleagues helps ensure high-quality results and smooth workflow within the team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Purification Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Purification Scientist, you need a solid understanding of protein chemistry, chromatography techniques, and laboratory best practices, typically supported by a degree in biochemistry, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as HPLC, FPLC systems, and analytical software, as well as experience with relevant safety standards, is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure the efficient and accurate purification of biomolecules, which is critical for research, development, and manufacturing in pharmaceutical and biotech industries.

What is the difference between Purification Scientist vs Analytical Chemist?

AspectPurification ScientistAnalytical Chemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on purification processes, biopharmaceuticals, or biotechLaboratories performing chemical analysis, quality control, or research
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical, biotech, or chemical manufacturing companiesPharmaceutical, environmental, or food testing labs
Common Search & ComparisonPurification Scientist vs Analytical Chemist

While both roles require a background in chemistry and laboratory skills, a Purification Scientist primarily focuses on isolating and purifying compounds, often in biopharmaceuticals, whereas an Analytical Chemist specializes in analyzing and testing chemical substances for quality and composition. Both roles are essential in the drug development and manufacturing process, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

What is the highest paid type of scientist?

Among scientists, petroleum engineers and data scientists tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Purification scientists and other specialized roles in pharmaceuticals or biotech typically earn less but can reach higher levels with experience and advanced certifications.
More about Purification Scientist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Purification Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Purification Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Purification Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Purification Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Purification Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Purification Scientist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Purification Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 4% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution.
Purification Scientist

Purification Scientist

Actalent

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Purification Scientist

Job Description

The Purification Scientist supports a DNA/RNA purification manufacturing team focused on plasmid and vector processing. In this role, you execute established workflows to produce purified DNA while following strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) and maintaining accurate, real-time documentation. You work in a highly process-driven, fast-paced environment and contribute directly to manufacturing operations and production workflows.

Responsibilities

  • Perform agar plating, colony selection, and culture growth to support plasmid and vector production.
  • Execute plasmid and vector purification workflows according to established protocols.
  • Conduct DNA dilutions and prepare buffers, reagents, and other solutions required for purification processes.
  • Handle DNA and RNA materials safely and accurately throughout the manufacturing process.
  • Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) consistently and precisely for all laboratory and manufacturing activities.
  • Maintain accurate, real-time documentation of all work performed, including batch records and related manufacturing documentation.
  • Support general manufacturing operations and production workflows as needed to meet output and quality targets.
  • Collaborate closely with team members to ensure smooth handoffs, efficient workflow, and adherence to production schedules.
  • Apply strong attention to detail to ensure high-quality, repeatable results in a structured manufacturing environment.
  • Participate in training and continuous improvement activities to enhance processes and maintain best practices.

Essential Skills

  • Hands-on experience with core molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA handling, plasmids, and PCR.
  • Direct experience working with DNA in a lab environment, such as purification, plasmid workflows, vector workflows, or similar processes.
  • Demonstrated ability to follow strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) in a manufacturing or laboratory setting.
  • Strong documentation skills with a good documentation practice (GDP) mindset and comfort documenting work in real time.
  • Experience with plasmid purification and vector purification workflows.
  • Familiarity with cell culture techniques in support of plasmid or vector production.
  • Understanding of GMP or GMP-like manufacturing environments and batch record practices.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific field.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in a process-driven environment.
  • Ability to work comfortably with hands-on lab work and routine, repeatable processes.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills in a collaborative environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Interest in building a career in biotech GMP manufacturing and DNA/RNA purification.
  • Comfort working in a structured, highly repeatable manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to learn new workflows quickly through a structured training plan.
  • Strong time management skills to operate effectively in a fast-paced, production-based setting.
  • Motivation to contribute to a collaborative, tight-knit team environment.
  • High level of personal accountability and ownership for quality and compliance.
Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Carlsbad, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $32.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Carlsbad,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 29, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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