Associate Scientist, Bioanalytical Lab

MSD Careers • Gaithersburg, MD

9d • $78,100 - $116,200 • Onsite

About The Position

POSITION SUMMARY: The Bioanalytical Associate Scientist is responsible for independently executing experiments in support of sample testing and method validation projects. This is a laboratory-based position whose primary function is independently executing various types of assays with relatively high throughput in support of bioanalytical projects. This position manages multiple projects with high quality results and provides guidance to other team members regarding assay execution as needed. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Independently execute sample analysis in consultation with the Bioanalytical Principal Investigator (BPI) Independently execute method validation assays in consultation with the BPI Function as lead analyst in multi-panel testing, overseeing individual runs by more junior analysts Independently perform lot qualification of assay reagents Independently review analytical data and perform data analysis Provide training and mentoring to other laboratory employees on assay execution and laboratory best practices Complete test records in compliance with MSD’s Good Documentation Practicies (GDP), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) requirements, applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and study plans Perform peer review of test records generated by other testing staff for GDP compliance Perform sample aliquoting Lead and participate in general lab maintenance initiatives Lead and participate in materials/reagent inventory Adhere to all laboratory safety policies and procedures including proper use of all required personal protective equipment (PPE) Adhere to applicable principles of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP)

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or other related scientific discipline, or equivalent work experience is required
• Minimum 4 years of hands-on work experience in biological sample testing or reagent/assay development in an industrial setting is preferred; academic setting considered
• Demonstrated proficiency in executing wide range of relevant assays utilized can be substituted for up to 1 year of work experience
• Training in and experience with Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) techniques is required
• Experience working in a high complexity/high throughput lab is highly preferred
• Understanding of ligand-binding assays
• Strong scientific fundamentals and analytical background
• Logical problem solving and demonstrated ability to initiate, organize and implement process improvement activities
• Ability to execute and oversee complex assays run in a relatively high throughput environment with a focus on high quality results
• Ability to lead, train and guide others to understand and accomplish tasks/duties/responsibilities
• Ability to troubleshoot issues and recommend solutions to technical challenges
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work well with all levels of employees as well as other parties/stakeholders involved with the company
• Effectively communicate issues/problems and results that impact timelines, accuracy and reliability of laboratory data
• Effectively communicate performance goals and expectations to direct reports
• Proficiency in MS Office suite; familiarity with electronic file management using SharePoint (end user minimum)
• Ability to multi-task and work productively in a demanding environment with changing priorities

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree is preferred
• Experience with running immunoassays/ligand-binding assays is highly preferred
• Experience with running assays on the MSD platform is highly preferred
• Training in and experience with GLP and/or GCLP is highly preferred

Responsibilities

• Independently execute sample analysis in consultation with the Bioanalytical Principal Investigator (BPI)
• Independently execute method validation assays in consultation with the BPI
• Function as lead analyst in multi-panel testing, overseeing individual runs by more junior analysts
• Independently perform lot qualification of assay reagents
• Independently review analytical data and perform data analysis
• Provide training and mentoring to other laboratory employees on assay execution and laboratory best practices
• Complete test records in compliance with MSD’s Good Documentation Practicies (GDP), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) requirements, applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and study plans
• Perform peer review of test records generated by other testing staff for GDP compliance
• Perform sample aliquoting
• Lead and participate in general lab maintenance initiatives
• Lead and participate in materials/reagent inventory
• Adhere to all laboratory safety policies and procedures including proper use of all required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Adhere to applicable principles of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP)

Benefits

• At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security.
• In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits.
• We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance.
• Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program.
• Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees