Research & Development Scientist

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT SCIENTIST

Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia (on-site)

Department: Research, Life Sciences

Job Type: Full- time

Shift: Monday- Friday, 8:15 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. (ET)

Clinical Classification: Clinical

LifeNet Health is searching for talented individuals who will embrace our mission of saving lives, restoring health, and giving hope.

LifeNet Health, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is the largest nonprofit organ procurement organization (“OPO”) and tissue processor in the United States, as well as a leading innovator in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Our goal is to improve the quality of human life through the provision of organs, tissues, and cells for transplantation; to provide innovation in the fields of bio-implants, regenerative medicine and research; and, to serve the community with educational and support services that enhance the donation process.  LifeNet Health has over 1,200 employees and has a growing global presence.

The Research & Development (R&D) Scientist works cooperatively with the R&D team while independently leading research studies and program evaluations. The position will provide an opportunity to engage in multiple aspects of prototype development and contribute to an exciting scientific pipeline. The R&D Scientist will perform in vitro testing as well as utilize in vivo models to assess efficacy and support selection of exploratory allograft and hybrid candidates. Assays include, but are not limited to, ELISA/Luminex based protein quantification/profiling, tissue or cell-based in vitro systems (i.e., biocompatibility, bioactivity), and pre-clinical animal models to support an iterative material and product development process. Candidates with experiences in bioinspired adhesives, wet tissue adhesives/sealants development for tissue repair and other biomedical applications are encouraged to apply.

This person will be required to occasionally sit, stand, and lift up to 50 lbs. They will continuously work in a sterile or isolation area.  Additionally, this person will be required to pass a pre- employment health screening. 

How you will contribute to LifeNet Health’s success:

The R&D Scientist leads and coordinates research efforts for R&D projects. Participates in the planning, executing, documenting and reporting of research and validation efforts. Performs complex testing with cell and tissue samples as well as prototype development. Maintains essential laboratory records. Provides scientific assistance for divisional laboratory efforts. Assists in the development of intellectual property in support of the divisional project portfolio. Writes, submits, and presents results or research findings both internally and externally.

What you’ll do:

• Research Development: Leads and coordinates research efforts for R&D projects based on corporate priorities. Plans and executes laboratory research as outlined in experimental design of project and in compliance with written policies. Develops assays and protocols pertaining to research and product development objectives as needed. Investigates the feasibility of the potential inventions and products.
• Documentation and Reporting: Makes detailed observations, analyzes data, interprets results and summarizes collected data into effective technical reports. Provides timely and effective communication (written and oral) of procedures, observations, and results.
• Continuous Improvement: Becomes knowledgeable by conducting appropriate literature reviews and assisting in identifying opportunities for research projects for new products. Acquires techniques and technologies needed to develop clinical or research products. Assists in the development of intellectual property in support of the divisional project portfolio.
• Support: Trains research associates and technicians on developed assays and protocols and provides scientific support to their experimental design