Scientist 3

The businesses of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany•Lenexa, KS

51d

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Analytical Chemist with strong expertise in LC-MS to support the characterization of cell culture media used in biologics development and manufacturing. The Scientist III Upstream R&D, Cell Culture Media Analytics position in Lenexa, Kansas, will develop innovative analytical solutions to complex problems relating to cell culture media. The ideal candidate will develop, optimize, and execute analytical methods to characterize small molecules, metabolites, and other components in complex media matrices. This role will have a strong foundation in mass spectrometry, method development, and data interpretation, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams.

Requirements

Bachelors in Microbiology, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or other Life Science or Engineering discipline
5+ years hands-on LC-MS experience
OR
Masters in Microbiology, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or other Life Science or Engineering discipline.
3+ years hands-on LC-MS experience
OR
PhD in Microbiology, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or other Life Science or Engineering discipline
1+ years hands-on LC-MS experience

Nice To Haves

Strong understanding of mass spectrometric principles and procedures for LC-MS method development and characterization of small molecules or biologics.
Hands-on experience using LC-MS instrumentation (e.g., QTOF, Orbitrap, triple quadrupole) to analyze complex biological matrices such as cell culture media and fermentation broths is highly desirable.
Strong critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
Good oral and written communication skills
Laboratory experience performing small or large molecule characterization using LC or LC-MS.
Experience using one or more of the following instruments is a plus: Waters, Sciex, and Thermo LC-MS systems.
Knowledge or experience using data analytics or programming skills for analysis of LC-MS data is a plus.
Experience with metabolomics workflows.

Responsibilities

Design, develop/optimize, and implement advanced LC-MS-based analytical methods for qualitative and quantitative characterization of cell culture media components with minimal guidance.
Perform routing LC-MS analysis to:
Support media production at a new site.
Demonstrate product comparability between different media production sites.
Ensure efficient technology transfer between different production sites.
Resolve media performance complaints.
Design and perform experiments with minimal supervision to support media development, process optimization, media performance investigations, and product characterization.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Media Development, Customer Collaboration, and Quality Control.
Troubleshoot instrumentation and method-related issues and maintain LC-MS systems in good working condition.
Stay current with advances in analytical technologies and seek new opportunities to advance technologies and apply innovative approaches to improve workflows and services.
Be open to new ideas and always seek critical feedback from colleagues and demonstrate effective cooperation.
Work collaboratively with colleagues, including ability to navigate challenging interpersonal dynamics with professionalism.