About This RoleOur pharmaceutical team is looking for a highly motivated early-career Scientist to join our Biologics Formulation team. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to next-generation protein formulation development while working with cutting-edge high-throughput automation technologies in a fast-paced startup environment.
As a Scientist, you will execute and optimize protein formulation protocols across liquid and solid dosage forms, supporting the development of high concentration biologics and advanced systems. You will play a key role in establishing automated workflows and maintaining robust data management practices as the team scales its capabilities.
ResponsibilitiesFormulation Development & Execution- Execute protein formulation experiments for liquid and solid dosage forms, including excipient screening, pH optimization, and stability assessment
- Prepare and characterize high concentration protein formulations and evaluate formulation stability under various conditions
- Support development of advanced formulation
- Perform routine analytical characterization using techniques such as DLS, DSF, CE, and spectroscopy
High-Throughput Automation & Data Management- Develop, optimize, and validate automated liquid handling protocols for high-throughput formulation screening
- Program and maintain automated equipment workflows, troubleshoot technical issues, and implement process improvements
- Design and execute plate-based experimental layouts for parallel formulation studies
- Maintain comprehensive electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) documentation with rigorous data integrity standards
- Organize, analyze, and visualize large datasets from high-throughput experiments using appropriate software tools
Collaboration & Communication- Work independently on assigned projects while maintaining clear communication with team members
- Present experimental results and progress updates in team meetings
- Contribute to technical reports, SOPs, and regulatory documentation
- Adapt quickly to changing priorities and deliver results within startup timelines
Basic Qualifications- PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomaterials, Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline
- Hands-on experience with protein formulation and characterization techniques
- Strong foundation in protein chemistry and physical biochemistry principles
- Proficiency with data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, GraphPad Prism, Python, or R)
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with strong organizational skills Experience with electronic lab notebooks and structured data management
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Preferred Skills And Experience- Industry experience in biopharmaceutical formulation development
- Experience with liquid handling automation platforms (e.g., Tecan, Hamilton, Beckman)
- Familiarity with protein crystallization techniques
- Knowledge of lyophilization, spray drying, or other solid-state processing methods
- Experience in startup or fast-paced R&D environments
- Programming experience for data analysis and visualization (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
What We Offer- Opportunity to work at the intersection of biotechnology and space manufacturing
- Hands-on experience establishing high-throughput formulation capabilities
- Collaborative team environment with mentorship from senior scientists
- Professional development opportunities in a rapidly growing company
Pay Range- Salary range: $100,000 - $140,000/per year
- This role is on-sitein El Segundo, CA
- Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance
- You will be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards
BenefitsVarda offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support health, financial well-being, and a high-quality workplace experience. Below is an overview of what full-time employees receive (at this time, interns receive a subset of benefits):
Health & Wellness- Flexible PTO policy + 12 paid holidays
- 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options
- Voluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance
- $120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses
- 12 weeks of parental leave (with supplemental disability leave for CA mothers)
- Family building, pregnancy, parenting and menopause benefits via Maven Clinic
- Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents
Financial & Retirement - Substantial incentive equity in a fully funded space start-up
- 401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested)
- $20/pay period cell phone reimbursement
- Relocation support for new hires, if needed
Workplace Experience & Perks - Fully stocked kitchen with lunch provided daily and dinner provided twice weekly
- Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and mission-success celebrations
- Complimentary EV charging
