Senior Scientist Labs

NSF•Traverse City, MI

About The Position

We are seeking a Senior Scientist - Chemistry leads the development and validation of analytical methods and oversees the execution of complex research initiatives. This role is responsible for designing experiments, analyzing data, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of scientific findings. The Senior Scientist drives innovation through method optimization, troubleshooting technical challenges, and contributing to thought leadership efforts such as publications. Additionally, this role provides mentorship to junior team members, fosters collaboration across departments, and ensures all research meets regulatory standards and client objectives.

Requirements

BS/BA in a directly related science field.
Minimum of 5 to 10 years of related experience in an analytical testing laboratory.
Knowledge of standard lab procedures and instrumentation.
Deep Analytical instrumentation knowledge required.
Able to work well in a production team environment with strong organizational skills.
Consistent attention to detail and verbal/written communication skills.
Computer skills with laboratory LIMS and instrumentation software.

Nice To Haves

MS/PhD is a plus.

Responsibilities

Research Design & Development
Lead and manage multiple R&D projects, ensuring alignment with business priorities, timelines, and strategic objectives.
Design, develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods to ensure reliability, reproducibility, and scalability.
Define technical requirements, analytical constraints, and success criteria to establish clear frameworks for method development.
Develop validation strategies and overall study design in accordance with scientific and regulatory standards.
Lead method transfer from R&D to Analytical, ensuring seamless implementation, effective training, and consistent performance.
Evaluate project feasibility, risks, and resource requirements to support informed decision-making.
Experimental Oversight & Data Analytics
Translate project objectives into detailed experimental plans, including scope, milestones, and deliverables.
Lead and oversee experimental execution, ensuring adherence to protocols, quality standards, and timelines.
Develop and implement data collection and validation protocols to ensure consistency and scientific rigor.
Analyze, interpret, and synthesize complex analytical data into actionable insights for internal stakeholders and client reporting.
Ensure data integrity and accuracy through comprehensive review processes aligned with scientific, regulatory, and client requirements.
Monitor method performance and key quality metrics, driving continuous improvement and optimization.
Evaluate method robustness and performance, leading implementation of enhancements.
Regulatory & Quality Compliance
Ensure all R&D activities adhere to applicable regulatory, industry, and internal quality standards.
Maintain audit-ready documentation to support regulatory submissions, client reporting, and internal quality requirements.
Partner with Quality to proactively integrate compliance, data integrity, and risk mitigation into method development and execution.
Identify and address compliance risks, ensuring timely resolution and alignment with regulatory expectations.
Support development of product specifications and labeling requirements in alignment with regulatory standards.
Team Leadership
Train and mentor technicians and junior scientists with technical and professional guidance.
Create technical training materials to support team education and skill-building.
Coordinate additional testing requirements to satisfy client or internal project demands.
Inventory & Equipment Management
Monitor stock levels of essential consumables and solvents required for method development.
Submit and manage purchase requests for consumables.
Direct equipment modification, maintenance strategies, and troubleshooting to support operational needs.
Maintain supplier relations to to address quality concerns.
Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
Work closely within the RPD department to complete additional projects and/or team activities.
Provide input on potential process improvements and contribute to team discussions on optimization and efficiency.
Perform additional duties as the position develops or as instructed by management