ASSOCIATE RESEARCH SCIENTIST JOB DESCRIPTION

An Associate Research Scientist is someone who plans and executes experiments. The scope is broader than that phrase suggests: this role owns the translation of scientific hypotheses into reproducible data, carries GMP or GLP documentation accountability, and moves findings through the publication or regulatory submission pathway with minimal senior oversight. In pharmaceutical and biotech settings, this means managing IND-supporting assay validation, method transfers to contract labs, and real-time troubleshooting of analytical or biological systems. The role typically reports into a senior scientist or R&D program lead and is embedded in project teams where upstream chemistry and downstream clinical evidence depend on the accuracy of this individual's work.

As the Associate Research Scientist, you independently design and execute complex experiments, validate analytical or biological methods to GMP or GLP standards, and translate results into technical reports and publications that advance drug discovery or development programs. You will operate within a cross-functional R&D team spanning process development, quality assurance, and program management, with scope spanning early discovery through IND-enabling study support.

Career Impact: Hands-on ownership of method validation and IND-enabling study execution builds a publication and patent record that is recognized across pharmaceutical and biotech hiring markets.

Business Impact: Drug candidates cannot advance to regulatory submission without reproducible, documented assay data - the Associate Research Scientist produces and defends that evidence directly.

Growth Opportunity: Demonstrated proficiency in GMP-compliant method development and cross-functional project leadership positions candidates for promotion to Senior Research Scientist or specialist roles in analytical sciences or translational pharmacology.

• Design and execute experimental protocols for method validation, method transfer, and analytical or cell-based testing across pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical compounds.
• Develop and optimize assays including in vitro cell-based models, immunoassays, or molecular biology techniques to support drug discovery or development objectives.
• Troubleshoot failed experiments and analytical instrumentation to identify root cause and implement corrective actions independently.
• Author and review study protocols, project status reports, final study reports, and SOPs for internal use and regulatory submission.
• Present scientific results, data interpretations, and technical recommendations to project teams, clients, or management on a scheduled basis.
• Transfer validated methods to external contract laboratories or internal testing teams, providing SME support through qualification.
• Mentor junior laboratory staff and coordinate day-to-day activities within assigned project scope.
• Maintain laboratory notebooks, ELN records, and documentation in compliance with GMP, GLP, or institutional requirements.

• Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline, or equivalent work experience.
• 2 or more years of hands-on laboratory research experience in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or CRO setting, with demonstrated ability to work independently.
• Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and statistical interpretation applied to analytical or biological assay development.
• Demonstrated competence in GMP or GLP documentation practices, including laboratory notebooks, deviation reports, and change control procedures.
• Ability to execute and independently troubleshoot molecular biology or analytical techniques such as qPCR, ELISA, or chromatographic methods.
• Strong scientific writing skills with experience preparing technical reports, protocols, and peer-reviewed or regulatory documents.

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant life science or chemistry discipline, with direct industry laboratory experience.
• Experience conducting method validation or method transfer activities in a CRO or contract manufacturing environment with external client interaction.
• Familiarity with pharmacokinetic, biomarker, or cell-based potency assay development in support of IND or BLA filing.
• Prior exposure to viral vector production, gene therapy raw material testing, or nucleic acid-based therapeutic programs.

• Assay reproducibility rate, measured by percent coefficient of variation within validated acceptance criteria across repeated runs.
• Method transfer success rate, reflecting the proportion of assays accepted by receiving labs on first qualification attempt.
• Protocol and report on-time delivery rate, tracking adherence to project-defined submission deadlines.
• Out-of-specification investigation closure time, measuring average days from OOS event to documented CAPA resolution.
• Peer or QA review pass rate on first submission, indicating documentation accuracy before rework is required.
• Typical tools: statistical analysis software (commonly SAS JMP or equivalent); ELN and LIMS platforms (commonly LabVantage, Benchling, or equivalent).

• Base Salary Range: $75,000 to $105,000 annually, depending on degree level and industry experience.
• Bonus: 5% to 10% annual performance bonus typical in pharma and biotech settings.
• Equity: stock options or RSUs common at biotech companies; less prevalent at CROs.
• Health Benefits: medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution rates vary by organization.
• PTO: 15 to 20 days annually, plus standard federal holidays.
• Common Perks: tuition reimbursement, professional conference attendance, laboratory safety stipends, and flexible scheduling where lab operations permit.

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Successful completion of a background check, which may include verification of employment history and education, is required as a condition of employment. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available throughout the application and employment process upon request. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship now or in the future.

The Associate Research Scientist owns the full research lifecycle at Denver Health, from grant proposal development and IRB approval through data collection, manuscript preparation, and dissemination of findings at academic and clinical meetings. Working across partnering institutions, networks, and funding agencies, the role enables the organization to sustain and grow its sponsored research programs through external funding and peer-reviewed publication.

Key Responsibilities

Maintain active awareness of local, regional, and national funding priorities.

Identify and pursue external sources for research funding through development and submission of grant proposals, contract applications, and similar mechanisms.

Participate in timely presentation and publication of research and sponsored program results across peer-reviewed and non-traditional sources at local, national, and international levels.

Manage and oversee ongoing research projects, ensuring adherence to protocols, IRB compliance, budget, schedule, and reporting requirements.

Engage in direct mentorship of junior investigators, students, and staff; serve in advisory and educator capacity to guide training and professional development.

Build and maintain relationships with research collaborators and colleagues internally and externally at partnering institutions, networks, and funding agencies.

Supervise research staff and work collaboratively with SPARO.

Maintain all research investigator training and requirements through eRA commons and COMIRB, including CITI trainings.

Required Qualifications

• MD, PhD, PsyD, PharmD, EdD, or other doctoral-level degree in a health-related field, required.
• Five years of directly related experience with grant application, statistics, data analysis, program evaluation, and scientific writing, required.
• Experience with multidisciplinary collaboration, required.
• Good working knowledge of research methods, training programs, and history of or clear potential for success in obtaining external funding.
• Demonstrated ability to advise, mentor, coach, and supervise study team personnel in research and protocol activities.
• Operating knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
• Competence in SAS, STATA, SPSS, R, or other statistical analysis software.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills with ability to manage multiple tasks effectively and independently.
• Ability to analyze and interpret data, financials, and reports, and present findings to diverse audiences in oral and written formats.

Reporting to program leadership, the Associate Research Scientist supports the raw material and gene therapy pipeline by leading project management of the raw material program and developing testing strategies for starting materials. Partnering with manufacturing, QA, validation, MSAT, PD, and Safety stakeholders, the role builds the analytical foundation that enables compliant and timely gene therapy product development.

Primary Duties

• Assist in project management of raw material program implementation, including tracking of key milestones and timelines.
• Assist in development of testing strategies for raw materials, including supporting onboarding of contract testing labs.
• Generate documentation for raw material testing program, including SOPs, risk assessment documentation, and specification development.
• Provide leadership and subject matter expertise for analytical method development, transfer, and validation activities for raw materials and starting materials for gene therapy.
• Work closely with key stakeholders across manufacturing, QA, validation, MSAT, PD, and Safety to advance the program.
• Investigate and evaluate cutting-edge raw material analytical instrumentation and onboard new instruments to the lab.
• Manage work assignments, analyze and interpret test results, and conduct troubleshooting independently with minimal supervision.
• Work on laboratory investigations, change control, deviations, and CAPAs as appropriate for internal and external testing.
• Write, prepare, and present technical data, reports, and SOPs for internal use and transfer to external sites.

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 6+ years, Master's degree with 4+ years, or PhD with 2+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination.
• BS/MS in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or related discipline with at least 5 years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of USP, Ph. Eur., and JP strongly preferred; experience with QC raw material sampling is a plus.
• Knowledge and hands-on experience with raw material analytical techniques including FTIR, UV-Vis, Osmolality, pH, NIR, Raman, and potentiometric titration strongly preferred.
• Experience with statistical analysis software (SoftMax, JMP) and working with external contract labs (CMOs, CROs) preferred.
• Strong collaboration, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills; ability to work independently and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
• Highly motivated with strong technical leadership skills and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.

Sitting at the intersection of scientific innovation and pharmaceutical development, the Senior Associate Research Scientist independently designs and executes complex process development experiments in support of pre-determined corporate goals, applying GMP knowledge and sound technical judgment to advance drug discovery objectives. Operating across departments and public forums, this role shapes the organization's scientific output through experimental leadership, mentorship, and contributions to peer literature.

Duties

• Independently design and conduct process development experiments, assays, or operational procedures of a complex and non-routine nature in support of pre-determined corporate goals.
• Apply knowledge of GMP requirements to practice in own functional area; analyze and interpret results, systems, or procedures.
• Troubleshoot failed experiments, assays, or procedures; overcome obstacles and develop alternative experimental approaches.
• Exercise sound technical judgment to solve a range of scientific problems and recommend innovative solutions utilizing knowledge of unit operations and scientific creativity.
• Interact with other departments on projects and contribute to overall project success.
• Interpret and effectively communicate scientific findings in one-on-one discussions and/or departmental meetings; present complete development summaries and literature reports in public forums.
• Contribute to scientific literature and take initiative in keeping current with the field of specialty.
• Ensure that laboratory notebooks are consistently updated, audited, and well-maintained; aim to identify novel drug targets.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Sciences with 8+ years, or Master of Science with 6+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Five years of experience in pharmaceutical Research and Development (R&D).
• Understanding of drug discovery and development processes.
• Experience in state-of-the-art in vitro and in vivo laboratory techniques including gain/loss-of-function cell culture experiments, cellular target engagement assays, expression studies, and in vivo mouse and rat studies including xenograft, orthotopic, and transgenic models.
• Demonstrated ability to design and perform experiments including assays, methods development, validation, scale-up, and operations; independently troubleshoot problems requiring original thought.
• Demonstrated knowledge in field of expertise including literature, new developments, technologies, and regulations.
• Ability to apply scientific principles to experimental design, exercise judgment in selecting methods and techniques, and prepare reports interpreting complex experimental results.

Embedded within PPD's analytical sciences team, the Associate Research Scientist delivers complex laboratory analysis of pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical compounds, serving as project leader across multiple concurrent client engagements. Working closely with clients and senior team members, the role advances method validation, regulatory compliance, and the timely issuance of accurate analytical data that underpins drug development decisions.

Core Functions

• Independently perform method validations, method transfers, and analytical testing of pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical compounds in a variety of formulations and/or delivery systems.
• Understand and conform to methods and protocols applicable to assigned tasks; design and execute experiments with minimal supervision.
• Prepare study protocols, project status reports, final study reports, and other project-related technical documents.
• Communicate data and technical issues to the client and respond to client needs and questions.
• Mentor, train, and coordinate laboratory activities of other team members; assist in troubleshooting instrument and analytical problems.
• Assist with quality systems, new equipment, and designing method validation or method transfer protocols; establish project timelines.
• Review, interpret, and analyze data for technical quality and compliance; perform self and peer review prior to submission to QA and issuance to customers.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree with 6+ years, Master's degree with 4+ years, or PhD with 2+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Experience performing immunoassays, ELISA, or similar testing; independently designs and executes experiments.
• Prepares and reviews study protocols, project status reports, final study reports, and other project-related technical documents.
• Leads analytical troubleshooting sessions; proven problem-solving and technical writing abilities.
• Strong time management and project management skills.
• Good written and oral communication skills with ability to work collaboratively and train junior staff.

A key member of PPD's analytical team, the Associate Research Scientist - Molecular Biology leads development and validation of test methods for AAV viral vector process development activities, including viral genome titer, capsid titer, and residual impurity characterization. Collaborating across testing teams and client contacts, the role ensures regulatory and scientific rigor across development, validation, and stability projects by serving as technical project leader on multiple concurrent programs.

Functions

• Develop new test methods for characterization and quantification of identity and specific classes of impurities.
• Develop and execute test methods in support of AAV viral vector process development activities, including viral genome titer, host cell residuals, capsid titer, cell-based potency, and residual impurity characterization.
• Troubleshoot, optimize, and trend assay performance.
• Report on project progress, contribute to analytical development protocols and reports, and provide technical recommendations to management.
• Transfer assays to testing teams and provide SME support for assay qualification; author and review transfer and qualification protocols and reports.
• Maintain excellent written documentation including lab notebooks and test forms; assist with lab organization and compliance with safety protocols.

Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Cell & Molecular Biology, Genetics, or equivalent and relevant formal academic/vocational qualification.
• Comparable to 5+ years with a Bachelor's degree or 3+ years with a Master's degree of relevant experience.
• Experience working with viral vectors for gene therapy preferred.
• Hands-on experience with real-time qPCR, automated DNA/RNA extraction, and robotic liquid handlers; preferred experience with NGS, ddPCR, HPLC/UPLC, CE-SDS, and ELISA.
• Experience with sample management and ELN/LIMS systems strongly preferred; ability to independently understand and apply GMPs and/or GLPs to documentation and instrument use.
• Ability to independently optimize analytical methods.
• Excellent communication skills with proven ability to build collaborative relationships and work effectively in a multidisciplinary team; strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.

Continued growth of Ginkgo's Mammalian Foundry depends on the Associate Research Scientist, who produces research-grade AAV using the 293 system and analyzes vector-specific characteristics including packaging efficiency and product quality across gene therapy programs. Based within a cross-functional team of scientists and engineers, this role advances viral production capabilities by integrating experimental screens into Ginkgo's automation platforms and maintaining high-quality data records in the LIMS environment.

Accountabilities

• Support senior scientists and engineers in advancing gene therapy projects by executing lab-based mammalian cell experiments.
• Produce research-grade AAV using the 293 system; apply knowledge of lentivirus, baculovirus, or other production systems as applicable.
• Analyze vector-specific characteristics including packaging efficiency and product quality as impacted by packaging and ITR plasmid integrity.
• Work closely with analytical characterization of viral preparations.
• Integrate screens into Ginkgo's automation and software platforms with fellow engineers.
• Present results at cross-functional team meetings.
• Generate, analyze, and record high-quality data using Ginkgo LIMS, documentation, and database tools; maintain laboratory records and contribute to lab organization and maintenance.

Technical Qualifications

• B.S. in a STEM field with 4+ years, or M.S. in a STEM field with 2+ years of hands-on laboratory experience.
• Significant experience in AAV or lentiviral packaging and production; fluency in mammalian cell culture including assessments of cell health and viability.
• Some experience with molecular biology tools such as restriction cloning, Golden Gate assembly, and Gibson assembly; some experience with recombinant DNA cloning techniques and DNA/RNA/vgDNA extraction.
• Non-viral gene therapy experience and familiarity with laboratory automation are a plus.
• Familiarity with data analysis platforms such as Python, R, and/or JMP; experience in an industry setting preferred.
• Strong organizational, time management, communication, and interpersonal skills; comfortable in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities and demonstrated eagerness to learn.

As the Associate Research Scientist, this role shapes the chiral synthesis of chemical intermediates and pharmaceutical active ingredients (APIs) to support ongoing clinical studies at United Therapeutics. The Synthetic Chemistry R&D team relies on this work to generate peer-reviewed publications, patents, and developmental reports that translate complex experimental findings into commercially scalable synthetic procedures.

Activities

• Independently design the chiral synthesis of chemical intermediates and pharmaceutical active ingredients (APIs).
• Design and perform experiments to address specific research problems; develop new methods to improve existing synthetic procedures for efficiency, cost, time, and scalability.
• Write research papers and periodic reports; make presentations at national meetings about the latest research and methodologies developed in the laboratory.
• Interpret data from HPLC, IR, 1D NMR, LC-MS, and 2D NMR (HMBC, HSQC, COSY).
• Synthesize and purify reaction intermediates and final APIs using prep HPLC, SFC, and automated flash chromatography.
• Apply Design of Experiments (DOE) knowledge to experimental design and data analysis.
• Interact with vendors for chemical needs; synthesize biologically active compounds under cGLP/cGMP conditions in multi-gram scale; maintain a safe work environment and meet all project deadlines.

Position Requirements

• PhD in Synthetic Chemistry with 1+ years of experience, or Master's degree in Synthetic Chemistry with 6+ years of experience.
• Proficiency in HPLC, IR spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy, and LC-MS.
• Expertise in 2D NMR interpretation (HMBC, HSQC, COSY) and Design of Experiments (DOE).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ChemWindow, SciFinder, and ChemBioDraw Suite.
• Proficiency in SAS JMP for advanced data analysis.

Senior Associate Research Scientist leads formulation development for BEOL/MOL CMP slurries, buffing chemicals, and PCMP cleaners, delivering chemistry and chemical component expertise to support next-generation semiconductor technology nodes. The work directly supports Product Development, Process Development, Manufacturing, and QA/QC teams by providing actionable technical guidance on slurry chemistries and abrasive interactions across customer-facing and internal programs.

Operational Focus

• Develop new CMP slurry formulations per customer and semiconductor technology node requirements.
• Investigate chemistry and abrasive interactions with different dielectric and metal films; fine-tune slurry chemistry to achieve desired polishing rates and metrology performance for BE/MOL slurries.
• Design experiments to prove hypotheses, execute test plans, and analyze and interpret data; prepare technical reports and present results to internal and external customers.
• Apply knowledge of acids/bases, corrosion inhibitors, chemical/particle interactions, electrochemistry, organic/inorganic chemistry, surfactants, and interfacial chemistry to CMP slurry development.
• Conduct literature and IP searches, document results, present data to the technology team, and file patents.
• Coordinate with engineering and lab staff on formulation needs; provide technical expertise on CMP slurry chemistries to Product Development, Process Development, Manufacturing, and QA/QC teams.
• Direct technicians to support project needs efficiently; work extensively in a lab environment with standing for a substantial part of every day.

Knowledge Skills & Abilities

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or Colloidal Science, minimum required.
• Minimum 10-15 years of industry experience in CMP slurry and PCMP cleaner chemistries.
• Experience with the semiconductor industry (FEOL/MOL/BEOL), polishing and metrology tools, CMP slurries, and abrasive particles required.
• Proven success in formulation development; familiarity with silica abrasives, surfactants, corrosion, surface chemistry, and electrochemistry required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Office 365 required.
• Highly self-motivated and creative with fast learning capability; excellent communication, data collection, time management, and organizational skills required.
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English required; additional proficiency in Chinese or Korean highly preferred to support customers in Asia.

The Associate Research Scientist owns analytical research projects at Dow, conducting characterization primarily through gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to solve problems of technical complexity for R&D and manufacturing business partners. Collaborating across multifunctional teams to identify challenges and propose solutions, the role builds proprietary state-of-the-art technologies with measurable business impact by deploying validated analytical methods and contributing to the company's intellectual capital.

Key Deliverables

• Conduct analytical research on assigned projects using working knowledge of scientific principles, theory, and experimental design.
• Develop and implement technical solutions through hands-on experimentation and problem-solving for well-defined research problems.
• Generate sound research data, interpret results, and handle data with demonstrated expertise in molecule separation and mass spectrometry.
• Consistently apply the Scientific Method in planning and executing experimental plans; formulate hypotheses and develop plans to test them.
• Participate in and contribute to the innovation process through new opportunity identification and application of project management tools to solve complex problems.
• Develop, optimize, validate, and deploy analytical methods to other users; draft and submit patent disclosures as appropriate.
• Communicate and document work in the form of internal technical reports, external publications and presentations, and intellectual capital; provide constructive input to project participants.
• Ensure a safe work environment by working safely and complying with environmental, health, and safety standards.

Professional Experience

• PhD in Chemistry, Engineering, or a science-related field, required.
• 5+ years of relevant post-PhD experience in the related field.
• Theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience with GC-MS required; LC-MS experience is a plus.
• Experience and knowledge of maintenance and troubleshooting of analytical instrumentation preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word and Excel.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills.
• Strong team player with ability to work effectively in a multi-functional environment.
• Language skills: English mandatory; knowledge of Dutch or willingness to learn Dutch desired.

Embedded within Dow's materials science R&D organization, the Associate Research Scientist leads product and formulation development projects spanning lab, pilot plant, and manufacturing scale, collaborating with TS&D, marketing, and legal to bring innovative polymer solutions to market. Working closely with global multi-disciplinary teams, the role delivers process technologies and IP management outcomes that strengthen the company's polyolefin and formulation portfolio across regional and global scope.

Areas of Ownership

• Lead and conduct research on projects using advanced knowledge of scientific principles, theory, and experimental design across adjacent scientific disciplines.
• Lead product and formulation development projects; collaborate with TS&D, marketing, and other functions to develop innovative product solutions.
• Develop lab, pilot plant, and manufacturing process technologies for innovative products; lead scale-up trials at internal and/or external assets.
• Identify process development opportunities for existing and future products; develop and implement technical solutions through hands-on experimentation.
• Generate sound research data, interpret results, and apply the Scientific Method in planning and executing experimental plans; leverage Six Sigma tools and methodology to solve complex problems with regional or global scope.
• Keep current with developments in relevant technology areas; manage IP with the legal department to secure freedom to practice and patent new technologies.
• Communicate clearly and effectively in verbal and written formats; serve on multi-disciplinary project teams to collaborate, provide technical input, and deliver results.
• Understand and follow EH&S standards and lead by example in safety behaviors; mentor junior-level scientists and technologists.

Education & Experience

• MS or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Sciences and Engineering, polymer physics/chemistry, processing, or related discipline, with a minimum of 5 years of industrial experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of polymer processing or polymer formulation experience.
• Strong polyolefin, formulation, and rheology knowledge.
• Prior experience in polymer compounding and extrusion technology is a plus.
• Prior experience working with global teams preferred.
• Ability to work independently and drive projects to completion; strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English; proven track record of documentation.

Reporting to the Translational Development Group in San Diego, the Associate Research Scientist / Senior Associate Research Scientist leads drug screening, cell-based assay development, and biomarker discovery by executing defined experiments and analyzing data from tumor cell lines, blood samples, and patient-derived tissues. Partnering with scientists across the organization, this role enables project teams to meet research deadlines and make informed decisions on drug candidates through rigorous data review and molecular biology execution.

Role Responsibilities

• Semi-independently execute defined experiments, data analysis, and data QC; report on scientific results to meet project deadlines.
• Develop and execute established and client molecular and cell-based assays for drug screening and understanding molecular pathways including Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Flow Cytometry.
• Perform cell biology and molecular biology techniques including primary and tumor cell culture, lentiviral transductions, RNA and protein preparation from cells and tissue, RT-PCR, western blotting, and ELISA.
• Handle and process patient-derived tissues and blood samples as required.
• Collaborate effectively and cultivate positive relationships with other scientists; present data to manager and project team as needed.
• Conduct thoughtful review of data and help plan next steps.
• Participate in maintenance of routine laboratory instrumentation and supplies; adhere to laboratory safety policies and practices.

Background & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline with at least 2–4 years of work experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency with sterile cell culture, cell-based assays (CTG, apoptosis), and molecular biology techniques including protein, DNA, and RNA isolations, western blot, qRT-PCR, and flow cytometry.
• Hands-on experience with CRISPR, siRNA, and shRNA is a plus.
• Experience with high-throughput drug screening is a plus (training will be provided).
• Ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve technical questions in a multi-disciplinary environment.
• Excellent communication, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.

Sitting at the intersection of pharmacology and RNA-based drug discovery, the Associate Research Scientist independently designs and executes in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro studies to evaluate novel drug targets and treatment modalities for intractable diseases at a biopharmaceutical company. Operating within the pharmacology and drug discovery group, the role shapes the organization's pipeline by establishing animal models and in vitro assays that generate the preclinical evidence needed to advance novel RNA therapeutic candidates.

Job Functions

• Propose research ideas; design and execute experiments independently.
• Develop and implement animal models to facilitate different research projects.
• Establish and execute in vitro assays.
• Accurately record experimental data, analyze results, and maintain study notes and records in a timely manner.
• Present research progress to cross-functional groups and project teams.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS with 8-10 years, or MSc/PhD with 2+ years of experience in drug discovery.
• Proficiency and hands-on experience in in vitro assay development and in vivo animal modeling.
• Knowledge and experience with nucleic acid-based drugs is a plus.
• Proficiency in computer software and Microsoft applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and GraphPad Prism.
• Highly motivated and independent with strong critical and creative thinking skills to solve complex problems.