Senior Scientist

Thermo Fisher Scientific • Rockville, MD

6d • $75,000 - $95,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Discovery Bioanalysis department is seeking a hands-on, laboratory-based Outside Service Provider scientist for a nine-month engagement. The role provides dedicated capacity for ligand-binding assay testing supporting pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) studies, with a focus on timely sample analysis and accurate, traceable, fit-for-purpose bioanalytical data.

The scientist will develop and/or execute assays using established methods and approved study documentation, coordinate testing priorities with designated scientific leads, and independently perform routine assay activities. Work may include assay readiness checks, preparation of samples and reagents, plate execution, data review, scientifically justified repeat analysis, troubleshooting, and preparation of study-level data packages. Additional assay delivery work, such as flow cytometry assay development or testing, may be assigned if applicable.

This delivery-oriented assignment requires efficient workload management, prompt escalation of risks, and complete records suitable for scientific review and downstream reporting. The work is on-site as required to perform testing and access departmental systems and equipment. The position is full time, billed at 40 hours per week, for nine months from the agreed start date. A designated scientific lead will set priorities, review outputs, and confirm acceptance of deliverables. Compensation in Maryland is estimated at $75,000–$95,000, with potential eligibility for a variable annual bonus under company policy.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in biology, biochemistry, immunology, pharmacology, or a related scientific discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience executing ligand-binding assays for quantitative bioanalysis of PK and/or PD samples.
• Practical experience with ELISA or electrochemiluminescence platforms.
• Ability to follow established protocols, independently execute laboratory work, and recognize and troubleshoot common assay-performance issues.
• Working knowledge of calibration curves, quality controls, dilutional analysis, run acceptance criteria, and good documentation practices.
• Experience with electronic laboratory notebooks and sample or laboratory information-management systems.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and communication, with the ability to manage multiple studies against agreed timelines.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a matrixed research environment while maintaining accountability for assigned deliverables.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with MSD instrumentation and software.
• Experience testing nonclinical or clinical study samples in a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or contract research environment.
• Experience with automated ligand-binding assay workflows and high-throughput sample testing.
• Familiarity with fit-for-purpose assay qualification, regulated or GxP-like practices, and technical report support.
• Experience with biomarker, target-engagement, or receptor-occupancy assays.
• Experience with other bioanalytic modalities, particularly flow cytometry.

Responsibilities

• Develop and/or execute ligand-binding assays for PK and PD sample testing using established methods and approved study documentation.
• Perform additional assay delivery work as assigned, potentially including flow cytometry assay development or testing.
• Prepare samples, standards, controls, reagents, and assay plates; operate applicable laboratory instrumentation and software.
• Complete assay readiness activities, including reagent checks, control evaluation, and method familiarization or training.
• Review run performance against predefined acceptance criteria and identify, document, and communicate assay issues or deviations.
• Perform scientifically justified repeat analysis and basic troubleshooting in consultation with the designated scientific lead.
• Analyze and process data using approved templates and systems, ensuring accuracy, traceability, and appropriate quality control.
• Maintain contemporaneous records in electronic laboratory notebooks, sample-management systems, and other departmental repositories.
• Prepare complete data packages, summaries, and supporting documentation for scientific review and reporting.
• Track assigned workload, turnaround times, and dependencies; provide status updates and promptly escalate delivery risks.
• Follow applicable safety, biosafety, data-integrity, confidentiality, and departmental procedures.
• Coordinate with project scientists, sample-management colleagues, and other internal partners.
• Record and submit hours accurately in accordance with the applicable purchase order, supplier agreement, and departmental process.
• Transfer open activities, data, and documentation in an orderly manner at the end of the engagement.

Benefits

• Potential eligibility for a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy.
• Choice of national medical and dental plans and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs.
• Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement.
• At least 120 hours of paid time off and 10 paid holidays annually.
• Paid parental leave, including three weeks for bonding and eight weeks for caregiver leave.
• Accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy.
• Competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan offering eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount.

What This Job Offers

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