Contract Method Development Scientist – Fiber Length Characterization

LifeSprout • Baltimore, MD

13d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a senior, hands-on Method Development Scientist to support development and optimization of analytical methods for measuring fiber length of PCL nanofibers. This is a focused, project-based contract role requiring strong experimental design skills, analytical judgment, and the ability to work independently in a laboratory setting. Our current fiber length method involves SEM imaging with manual fiber tracing, which suffers from variability due to inconsistent sample preparation, fiber entanglement, and subjective interpretation. We are evaluating more robust and potentially automated approaches, including image-based particle analysis using a Malvern Morphologi system and/or alternative techniques. The successful candidate will own the evaluation, optimization, and recommendation of a go-forward method. This role is onsite and hands-on, not remote or execution-only.

Requirements

• B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• Demonstrated hands-on method development experience for particle, fiber, or morphology analysis
• Strong understanding of microscopy, image analysis, and sample preparation challenges
• Experience working with polymeric materials, fibers, or nanomaterials
• Proven ability to independently design experiments, interpret data, and troubleshoot variability
• Ability to clearly document and communicate technical decisions and conclusions

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Malvern Morphologi or similar image-based particle analysis systems
• SEM experience with fibrous or soft materials
• Experience transitioning manual, subjective methods into more robust or automated workflows
• Familiarity with regulated or GMP-adjacent laboratory environments

Responsibilities

• Evaluate limitations and variability sources in current SEM-based fiber length measurement methods
• Design and execute experiments to improve sample preparation, fiber dispersion, and measurement reproducibility
• Assess feasibility of automated or semi-automated image-based approaches (e.g., Malvern Morphologi or similar systems) for fibrous materials
• Define objective criteria for identifying individual fibers versus aggregates or intertwined fibers
• Conduct side-by-side method comparisons (manual vs automated approaches) with appropriate data analysis
• Troubleshoot method variability using hypothesis-driven experimentation
• Summarize findings in clear, well-organized technical documentation
• Provide data-driven recommendations on method readiness, limitations, and next steps toward validation

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree