Associate Scientist, Biology-Discovery

MSD • Elkhorn, NE

2d • $71,900 - $113,200 • Onsite

About The Position

For over 130 years, we have pioneered groundbreaking science. Today, we are driven by continuous innovation to develop breakthrough medicines, vaccines and technology. Rooted in direct experience on the farm and in the clinic, we work hand in hand with our customers every step of the way. Our singular focus is to empower those who care for animals, helping them manage their vital responsibility with confidence. Because when it comes to animal health, no one sees it like we do. We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to join our Upstream Process Development team supporting the development of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies and other biologic products. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career scientist who is passionate about cell culture, bioprocess development, and biologics manufacturing. In this hands-on laboratory role, you will contribute to the development and optimization of mammalian cell culture processes using stable CHO cell lines for antibody production. You will work closely with cross-functional teams including Cell Line Development, Analytical Development, Formulation Development, and Downstream Process Development to advance innovative therapeutics from discovery through development. The ideal candidate is scientifically curious, eager to learn, detail-oriented, and enjoys working in a collaborative research environment. Training will be provided for selected instrumentation and platform technologies.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year of experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Hands on experience with aseptic techniques and mammalian cell culture principles.
• Good understanding of the design principles of commonly used cell culture equipment including the shaking incubators.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document and organize experimental data.
• Basic data analysis and data visualization skills using software such as Excel, GraphPad Prism, or similar tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within multidisciplinary team environment.
• Demonstrated eagerness to learn new techniques and technologies.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with CHO cell culture for recombinant protein or antibody production.
• Hands-on experience operating benchtop or pilot-scale bioreactors.
• Experience with cell counting, viability assessment, metabolite analysis, or protein titer measurement.
• Proficiency in laboratory software and data analysis tools relevant to upstream operations
• Industry experience in the CHO cell based upstream process development for biological therapeutics
• Knowledge and experience with different type of cell culture process for recombinant protein or monoclonal antibody production

Responsibilities

• Conduct mammalian cell culture activities including thawing, expansion, maintenance, and cultivation of CHO cell lines in shake flasks and bioreactors.
• Execute upstream process development experiments to support monoclonal antibody production.
• Monitor cell culture performance through routine sampling and analysis of key process parameters, including viable cell density, viability, metabolites, and product titer.
• Perform in-process and off-line analytical testing using cell counters, bioanalyzers, metabolite analyzers, and other laboratory instrumentation.
• Support bioreactor setup, operation, monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance across multiple scales.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support sample testing, data generation, and process development activities.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data to identify trends and support process optimization.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in electronic laboratory notebooks and prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety guidelines, standard operating procedures, and data integrity requirements.

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family)
• retirement benefits, including 401(k)
• paid holidays
• vacation
• compassionate and sick days

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level