Scientist; Infectious Disease

Piper Companies is seeking a highly motivated and innovative PhD Scientist with deep expertise in in vivo models and bacteriology/infectious disease research to join our growing R&D team out of Frederick, MD. This role will focus on designing and executing preclinical studies to advance therapeutic candidates targeting bacterial pathogens and infectious diseases.

• Design, plan, and execute in vivo studies to evaluate therapeutics against infectious diseases
• Develop and optimize animal infection models (e.g., murine, rat, or alternative species)
• Conduct bacteriology assays, including bacterial culture, characterization, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing
• Analyze disease progression, pathogen burden, and host response endpoints
• Collaborate closely with microbiology, pharmacology, and translational teams
• Interpret complex datasets and communicate results clearly through reports and presentations
• Contribute to experimental strategy, study design, and troubleshooting
• Maintain compliance with IACUC and institutional ethical standards
• Stay up to date with emerging infectious disease trends and technologies

• 3+ years of postdoctoral or industry experience
• Strong hands‑on experience with in vivo infection models
• PhD in Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Immunology, or a related field
• Expertise in bacteriology techniques, including bacterial culture and isolation, MIC/antimicrobial testing, pathogen identification and characterization
• Experience working with BSL‑2 and/or BSL‑3 pathogens
• Experience with molecular techniques (PCR, gene expression, DNA/RNA, etc.)
• Demonstrated ability to design experiments and analyze biological data
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Salary:
  Between $70,000 - $90,000 based on years of relevant experience
• Comprehensive Benefits:
  Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, PTO (Paid Time Off), Paid Holidays, Sick Leave as required by law

This job opens for applications on 5/29/2026. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.