R&D Associate Scientist

Pace Analytical Services • Fort Dodge, IA

2d

About The Position

This lab-based role assists in the design and execution of studies involving process development for in ovo viral propagation. The Associate Scientist applies technical and practical principles across the innovation cycle, contributing to the development, validation, and licensure of vaccine products. The position involves laboratory work with infectious agents under BSL-2 requirements and collaboration with scientists and cross-functional teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Animal Science, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Relevant laboratory internship experience and 2 years of industry experience.
• Knowledge of BSL-2 laboratory environments and aseptic techniques for maintaining a clean laboratory environment.
• Proficiency in accurate and precise pipetting.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, technical curiosity, and learning agility.
• Track record of working independently and collaborating within cross-functional teams.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for documenting and presenting technical data.
• Strong organizational skills and the capacity to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a dynamic environment.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of in ovo techniques, embryonated egg inoculation, viral propagation, or vaccine development activities.
• Knowledge of sample preparation and biological and infectious material handling in accordance with laboratory safety procedures.
• Background in infectious disease, virology, microbiology, or other biological laboratory applications, including work with biohazardous organisms.
• Exposure to vaccine, biologics, or animal health research programs.
• Operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
• Self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform experimental work involving in ovo viral propagation, including inoculation of embryonated eggs and virus harvest procedures.
• Perform laboratory activities requiring accurate, precise, and reproducible pipetting, sample preparation, and biological material handling.
• Apply aseptic techniques during virus propagation, sample processing, media preparation, and related laboratory activities.
• Conduct work with infectious agents in accordance with BSL-2 safety requirements, laboratory procedures, and regulatory guidelines.
• Generate methods for technical activities under the guidance of a qualified scientist.
• Adapt to new procedures and evolving project needs in a dynamic R&D environment.
• Organize, interpret, and present experimental data to support project advancement; identify atypical results or deviations; and contribute to investigations, technical reports, and process improvements.
• Collaborate with scientists and cross-functional teams to share key learnings that advance portfolio projects and support innovation.
• Operate and perform basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment relevant to assigned work.
• Accurately document work in batch records, laboratory notebooks, and/or electronic laboratory notebooks.
• Maintain a clean, compliant, and organized laboratory work environment while promoting safe laboratory practices.
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment and maintain a positive, adaptable attitude.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• 401K retirement savings plan with the employer match 100% vested immediately.
• Life, disability, and voluntary benefits.
• Paid time off for holidays, sick days, and vacation days.
• Health savings account (HSA).
• Wellness program.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Employee Assistance program.
• Parental leave.
• Optional legal coverage and identity theft coverage.

What This Job Offers

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