(CW) Research Associate

Company: BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc.
Location: San Rafael
Posted on: February 8, 2026

Job Description:

Who We Are BioMarin is a global biotechnology company that relentlessly pursues bold science to translate genetic discoveries into new medicines that advance the future of human health. Since our founding in 1997, we have applied our scientific expertise in understanding the underlying causes of genetic conditions to create transformative medicines, using a number of treatment modalities. Using our unparalleled expertise in genetics and molecular biology, we develop medicines for patients with significant unmet medical need. We enlist the best of the best – people with the right technical expertise and a relentless drive to solve real problems – and create an environment that empowers our teams to pursue bold, innovative science. With this distinctive approach to drug discovery, we’ve produced a diverse pipeline of commercial, clinical and preclinical candidates that have well-understood biology and provide an opportunity to be first-to-market or offer a substantial benefit over existing therapeutic options. About Worldwide Research and Development From research and discovery to post-market clinical development, our WWRD engine involves all bench and clinical research and the associated groups that support those endeavors. Our teams work on developing first-in-class and best-in-class therapeutics that provide meaningful advances to patients who live with genetic diseases. CONTRACT 1 YEAR *On-site in San Rafael Five Days per Week Research Associate I / II - Biologics Purification & Characterization About Worldwide Research & Development (WWRD) BioMarin’s WWRD organization spans early research through post-market clinical development and includes the scientific teams responsible for discovery, translational research, and development. Our collaborative environment emphasizes scientific rigor, innovation, and meaningful patient impact. Position Summary The Therapeutics Process Development & Characterization (TPDC) group is seeking a highly motivated temporary Research Associate I/II to support biologics purification and analytical characterization, with a primary focus on enzymes, and additional exposure to other therapeutic proteins, antibodies, and peptide-based modalities. This is a primarily laboratory-based role involving hands-on purification and characterization of biologics using established chromatography and filtration workflows. The successful candidate will support multiple early-stage and exploratory research programs across BioMarin. Occasional responsibilities may include basic instrument and equipment maintenance in support of laboratory operations. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and able to work independently with guidance in a fast-paced research environment. Duties & Responsibilities Protein & Biologic Purification • Perform purification of recombinant enzymes and other therapeutic biologics, including proteins, antibodies, and peptides, using standard chromatography systems (e.g., AKTA Pure, AKTA Avant). • Execute purification workflows including: o Affinity chromatography o Ion exchange chromatography (AEX/CEX) o Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) o Hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) o Desalting and buffer exchange • Perform concentration and buffer exchange using tangential-flow filtration (TFF) or centrifugal filtration. • Prepare buffers and reagents according to established protocols. • Support routine equipment checks, basic instrument maintenance, and troubleshooting as needed. Analytical Characterization • Perform analytical assays to assess purity, identity, and concentration of biologics, including: o SDS-PAGE, CE-SDS o SEC-HPLC, RP-HPLC o UV/Vis spectrophotometry o Other established protein or peptide analytical methods as required • Execute established methods with an emphasis on data quality, reproducibility, and documentation. • Assist with basic data analysis and communication of results to project teams. General Laboratory Responsibilities • Maintain accurate and complete electronic and/or paper laboratory notebooks. • Follow established SOPs and document deviations with guidance. • Communicate results, observations, and progress updates clearly within the team. • Contribute to a safe, clean, and well-organized laboratory environment in compliance with BioMarin safety standards. Education & Experience Research Associate I • Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline. • 0–2 years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience (academic or industry). Research Associate II • Bachelor’s degree with 2 years of relevant experience, or • Master’s degree with 1–2 years of relevant experience. • Prior experience with biologics purification (enzymes, proteins, antibodies, or peptides) strongly preferred. • Experience with FPLC/HPLC and common protein analytical techniques is highly desirable. Desired Skills • Familiarity with AKTA Pure/Avant or similar chromatography instrumentation. • Strong attention to detail, organization, and reliable documentation practices. • Ability to follow established workflows and troubleshoot with guidance. • Effective communication and collaboration skills. • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office; familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism, JMP) is a plus. Note: This description is not intended to be all-inclusive, or a limitation of the duties of the position. It is intended to describe the general nature of the job that may include other duties as assumed or assigned. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Keywords: BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Redwood City , (CW) Research Associate, Science, Research & Development , San Rafael, California