Scientist 1 - Cell Culture

Merck•Rockville, MD

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This role supports assay development through commercial application of new and innovative service offerings within the biosafety testing space. The Scientist 1 - Cell Culture Laboratory is responsible for the scientific integrity of technical work performed in the laboratory, making scientific observations, maintaining detailed workbooks/documentation, and ensuring all documentation meets professional/industry standards. A thorough understanding of company testing services, technical principles, and applications relevant to the position is required.

Requirements

Ph.D. in a scientific discipline (e.g., Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biology, etc.) OR Master’s Degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biology, etc.) with 3+ years of scientific/laboratory experience OR Bachelor’s Degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biology, etc.) with 4+ years of scientific/laboratory experience
1+ years of cell culture experience
External applicants must be eligible to work in the US. This role does not offer sponsorship for work authorization.

Nice To Haves

Cell culture (mammalian and insect) and stem cell culture
GMP environment experience
Experience writing deviations
Client facing experience and communicating with customers
Broad working knowledge of field and experience with scientific laboratory practices, techniques, equipment, materials, and advanced mathematical calculations
Strong knowledge of laboratory regulations, quality assurance, and compliance standards
Intermediate skills in applicable computer programs
Excellent verbal and written communication skills that have been demonstrated through presentations/seminars, oversight of projects, implementation of new services, etc.
Excellent time management skills and highly, technically competent
Highly collaborative as well as independent
Demonstrates a high level of initiative and leadership capabilities
Effective coaching and training skills for complex and highly technical work

Responsibilities

Performs testing in accordance with SOPs and regulations (cGMP and GLP)
Acts as subject matter expert (SME) for specific defined area(s) of the business
Applies laboratory techniques and skills to complete experiments designed to address a variety of specific problems
Independently applies basic scientific principles in the design of experiments and the development of assays
For GLP studies, acts as Study Director
Maintains complete and comprehensive records for study integrity
Makes detailed observations, documents results, and performs data analysis
Operates and maintains lab equipment as required by SOPs and testing procedures
Utilizes applicable computer programs during testing and routine tasks (i.e. Word, Excel, Oracle, LIMS, BRIQS, etc.)
Utilizes problem solving/trouble shooting skills
Communicates deviations/events, progress, and interim results to Study Management
Liaises with Quality Assurance and appropriate cross-functional departmental areas to close events and corrective actions identified during GxP laboratory testing
Creates/revises SOPs, laboratory records, and other related documentation as assigned
Writes technical reports for internal use and collaborates on papers for external use
Performs training of laboratory personnel as needed/assigned
Contributes ideas and suggestions to improve standard laboratory techniques, protocols, processes, and equipment
Complies with company health and safety regulations and procedures
Ability to work occasional Sundays