Senior Scientist, DDT –Lab Automation, Automation Systems Engineer (Lab & Robotics)
About The Position
The Senior Scientist will join the Development Sciences and Clinical Supply (DSCS) Digital Technologies team, which is building connected, data-rich laboratory environments using hardware, software, and AI-driven tools. The role designs and deploys laboratory automation solutions that combine robotics, instrumentation, and software to help scientists work faster, improve data quality, and focus on discovery. It also develops custom solutions that extend existing laboratory systems and connects instruments, robotics, and data systems into integrated workflows. The position partners with researchers to translate experimental needs into scalable automated workflows, collaborates with scientists and experts across automation, data science, modeling, IT, and digital engineering, and leads projects from concept through deployment. The Senior Scientist also improves automation platforms and provides hands-on support, troubleshooting, and training to scientists who use them.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related field; expected graduation in 2026; or a relevant M.S. with at least 2 years of relevant experience; or a relevant B.S. with at least 4 years of relevant experience.
- Experience in a laboratory setting working with laboratory automation and equipment integration.
- Experience with scripting or programming using accepted best practices, including version control, design patterns, and clean code.
- Understanding of (bio)pharmaceutical process research and development, drug product development, and/or analytical development.
- Ability to work independently and entrepreneurially on cross-functional teams.
- Scientific collaboration and communication skills, including the ability to communicate with technicians and vendors.
Nice To Haves
- Experience programming or scripting in one or more of Python, C#, VBA, JavaScript, or R.
- Experience with automation edge devices and controllers, such as PLCs and microcontrollers.
- Experience with industrial SCADA or orchestration software, such as DeltaV, Ignition, or WinCC OA.
- Experience with benchtop automated reactor systems such as Sartorius Ambr250.
- Experience with laboratory automation software, firmware, and hardware, and integrating them into end-to-end solutions.
- Experience integrating laboratory instruments with custom or commercial software solutions.
- Ability to recognize, design, prototype, and deploy innovative laboratory automation technologies.
- Understanding of data science and AI/ML concepts and their application to laboratory automation.
- Wet-lab experience in (bio)pharmaceutical drug substance, drug product, and analytical research and development.
- Experience with commercial laboratory notebook software such as Benchling or Signals.
- Motivation to learn new skills, take on new challenges, and pursue scientific curiosity.
- Strong interest in understanding how systems work; describes oneself as a maker, builder, or tinkerer.
Responsibilities
- Develop automation systems integrating robotics, instrumentation, and software into cohesive, high-performing solutions.
- Partner with researchers to understand experimental needs and translate them into scalable automated workflows.
- Collaborate with experts in automation, data science, modeling, IT, and digital engineering.
- Lead projects from concept through deployment, working across teams and stakeholders.
- Improve existing automation platforms to enhance performance, usability, and reliability.
- Integrate robotic platforms with laboratory equipment and data systems to enable end-to-end digital workflows.
- Provide hands-on support, troubleshooting, and training to scientists using the systems.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision healthcare and other insurance benefits for employees and family.
- Retirement benefits, including 401(k).
- Paid holidays, vacation, compassionate days, and sick days.
- Eligible for an annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.
- Domestic or international relocation.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
