Senior Associate Scientist

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for designing and executing complex experiments and analyzing the resulting data in support of reagent and assay development projects. This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development objectives focused on leading-edge biomarker measurements and technology.  This position may supervise the work of junior team members. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Independently designs and executes complex experiments, implements plans and performs troubleshooting and implements solutions as needed.  

• Analyzes data using spreadsheets and graphing software, including statistical analyses.   Prepares clear and concise presentations without supervisor input, including thoughtful summaries and recommendations for next steps.  Presents to peer and supervisor review groups.  

• Coordinates/manages the work of junior team members.  

• Establishes and monitors direct report performance and development goals, assigns accountabilities, sets objectives, establishes priorities, and provides continuous feedback and recognition on performance.   

• Leads and participates in general lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining laboratory supplies and equipment, maintaining electronic inventory list database, physical inventory, processing/aliquotting/vialing/labeling materials, and preparing and maintaining reagent inventories.

• May be selected to monitor and report on the infrastructure of a particular lab or functional area.

• Specific duties may vary depending upon departmental requirements.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, or related area is required 

o Master’s degree is preferred 

• A minimum of six years hands-on laboratory work experience is required. Industry experience is required. 

• Extensive experience with running antibody-based assays, developing reagents and product development is required. 

• Training in and experience with Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) techniques is required.

• A minimum of one year of experience as a Team Lead highly preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong knowledge of scientific fundamentals with an analytical background.

• Advanced knowledge of immunoassay technology. 

• Demonstrated aptitude for learning of and adhering to standard laboratory techniques and safety precautions.

• Ability to work both independently and as an effective team member. 

• Ability to lead and guide junior team members, establish accountabilities and expectations, and manage performance to achieve results.

• Solid communication (written and verbal) skills regardless of the format (e.g., documents, public speaking situations, presentations, etc.).

• Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple and often changing priorities and issues of varying complexity, while meeting time-sensitive deadlines and deliverables.

• Attention to detail with demonstrated commitment to excellence and performance. 

• Demonstrated propensity to be creative, collaborative, proactive, and self-motivated in the execution and completion of assigned tasks.

• Ability to execute experiments, and to identify issues and propose/execute troubleshooting.  

• Strong analytical skills with the demonstrated ability to gather and evaluate complex data and information and develop a recommendation and plan of action. 

• Strong knowledge of statistics. Proficient in MS Excel, GraphPad Prism and SharePoint. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms. 

• Up to 75% of the day may be spent at a lab bench.

• There are aspects of the positions duties that require a person in this role to work at heights above four (4) feet on occasion and move/lift up to 25 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Laboratory environment working with chemical reagents and performing some Biosafety Level 2 work 

o May involve handling of BSL-2 materials and organisms including human blood and/or blood products.

COMPENSATION SUMMARY

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $85,900. to $131,000. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual