Discovery Scientist

MMQCI•Saco, ME

2d•$75,000 - $122,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Discovery Scientist conducts independent research to discover, design, and develop new capabilities for molecular diagnostic quality control products. Reporting directly to the Manager of Discovery, this role creates and oversees discovery projects and serves as a scientific resource and collaborator for the Manager of Discovery, Manager of R&D, and the R&D group. The role is suited to an experienced scientist with a strong chemistry foundation, an inventive and entrepreneurial mindset, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, changing environment. The scientist designs and executes rapid proof-of-concept experiments, identifies emerging technologies and product opportunities, and solves technical problems by testing ideas, learning quickly, and adapting as needed. The role collaborates across R&D, Manufacturing, Regulatory, and Commercial teams to bring ideas from concept toward implementation, and engages with key opinion leaders and industry conferences to keep discoveries aligned with current science. The position contributes to a culture that encourages creativity, risk-taking, and learning from failure. MMQCI designs, develops, manufactures, and sells quality control products used by hospital laboratories and manufacturers to monitor the accuracy of tests for genetic, oncologic, infectious diseases, and pharmacogenetics. The company has proprietary technologies for stabilizing DNA and RNA and pursues novel techniques for developing new quality control products. The role is based at MMQCI’s state-of-the-art facility in Saco, Maine.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Chemistry.
At least 7 years of relevant technical laboratory experience, such as in biomaterials, polymer chemistry, protein chemistry, analytical chemistry, bioengineering, nanomaterials or nanoparticles, or synthetic biology.
1–2 years of experience in a commercial or industrial laboratory.
High energy, inquisitiveness, and eagerness to learn.
Strong problem-solving skills, including applying novel approaches or considering solutions from alternative disciplines.
Strong data analysis and troubleshooting skills.
Interest in and current knowledge of innovative tools and techniques in the candidate’s area of expertise.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively and diplomatically with cross-functional teams.
Ability to multitask and manage multiple priorities.
Flexibility and experience adapting to the fast-changing priorities of a small company.

Nice To Haves

Some coursework in biochemistry or molecular biology.
Experience or interest in molecular biology techniques used in MMQCI product development and manufacturing, including cloning, sequencing, and qPCR/dPCR.
Knowledge of cGMP or ISO regulations and understanding of their importance in product development.

Responsibilities

Lead scientific discovery efforts to identify novel approaches for diagnostic quality control products.
Design and execute rapid experiments to test ideas, learn quickly, and adjust approaches as needed.
Monitor emerging technologies and molecular diagnostic trends to identify opportunities.
Collaborate with R&D, Manufacturing, Regulatory, and Commercial teams to develop ideas from concept toward reality.
Engage with key opinion leaders and attend industry conferences to align discoveries with cutting-edge science.
Contribute to a culture of creativity, risk-taking, and learning from failure.
Create and oversee discovery projects.
Serve as a scientific resource and collaborator for the Manager of Discovery, Manager of R&D, and the R&D group.