Scientist Lead (Research and Development)

CooperCompanies • Houston, TX

2d

About The Position

The Staff R&D Scientist provides advanced scientific leadership in the development, optimization, and lifecycle management of IVF media products. This role serves as a subject matter expert (SME) in culture media and solution chemistry, driving innovation, resolving complex technical challenges, and influencing product and process strategies. The individual collaborates cross-functionally to translate scientific insights into scalable, manufacturable, and compliant solutions, while contributing to the long-term technical roadmap and competitive positioning of the IVF portfolio.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or related field required.
• Deep expertise in cell culture, IVF/ART media, or related life sciences
• Knowledge of IVF/ART media development is highly desirable
• Strong knowledge of solution chemistry (pH, buffers, molarity, osmolality)
• Familiarity with GMP, ISO, and regulatory requirements
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Advanced experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation skills
• Well organized with attention to detail and ability to carry out tasks independently
• Good project management, organizational and follow-through skill set
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including ability to translate technical concepts to diverse audiences
• High level of independence, accountability, and scientific judgment

Nice To Haves

• Master’s or Ph.D. preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a technical lead and SME in IVF media formulation, performance, and stability
• Lead the design and development of new media products and platform improvements
• Provide ownership and technical oversight of Design History Files (DHFs), ensuring alignment with product lifecycle activities, regulatory expectations, and design control requirements; lead updates, gap assessments, and audit readiness
• Drive root cause investigations and complex troubleshooting for sustaining issues
• Define experimental strategies and ensure application of robust scientific and statistical methodologies
• Lead advanced data analysis and interpretation to guide decision-making
• Provide technical oversight during scale-up and technology transfer to manufacturing
• Influence product and process strategy, including formulation, raw material selection, and specifications
• Collaborate cross-functionally (Quality, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Commercial) to support product lifecycle and compliance
• Identify and lead innovation initiatives and continuous improvement efforts
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers, fostering technical development within the team
• Ensure high-quality documentation in compliance with GMP and design control requirements
• Contribute to intellectual property, publications, or technical differentiation strategies (where applicable)

Benefits

• medical coverage
• 401(k)
• parental leave
• fertility benefits
• paid time off for vacation, personal, sick and holidays

What This Job Offers

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