R&D Senior Scientist

Pace® Analytical Services • Fort Dodge, IA

1d • $27 - $35

About The Position

This lab-based role assists in the design and execution of studies involving process development for in ovo viral propagation. The position offers the opportunity to learn and apply technical and practical principles across the innovation cycle, contributing to the development, validation, and licensure of vaccine products.

The Senior Scientist performs experimental work involving in ovo viral propagation and supports data interpretation, method development, laboratory operations, documentation, and collaboration across R&D teams. The role also supports training laboratory personnel under the guidance of senior scientists.

Requirements

• Master’s degree with 2–4 years of industry experience, or a Ph.D., in Virology, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Hands-on experience with in ovo techniques, embryonated egg inoculation, viral propagation, or vaccine development activities.
• Expertise in infectious disease, virology, microbiology, or related biological research applications, including work with biohazardous organisms.
• Knowledge of BSL-2 laboratory environments and aseptic techniques for maintaining a clean laboratory environment.
• Experience with method development in a GMP/GLP laboratory environment.
• Applied knowledge of experimental design, execution, and interpretation of biological studies.
• Proficiency in pipetting, sample preparation, and biological and infectious material handling in accordance with laboratory safety procedures.
• Demonstrated expertise in analyzing complex data sets and drawing data-driven conclusions.
• Proven contributions to technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, protocols, and study documentation.
• Experience operating, maintaining, and performing basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
• 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

• Exposure to vaccine, biologics, or animal health research programs.
• Familiarity with downstream processing techniques and related equipment.
• Experience leading research projects or mentoring junior scientists and research associates.
• Publication record in relevant scientific fields.

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.
• 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; 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.
• Support training and development of laboratory personnel under the guidance of senior scientists.
• 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 benefits
• Dental benefits
• Vision benefits
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with immediate 100% vesting in the employer match
• Life insurance
• Disability benefits
• Voluntary benefits
• Paid 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
• Identity theft protection

What This Job Offers

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