Associate Scientist

Gaithersburg, Maryland
Gaithersburg, MD 20877, USA

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for designing and executing experiments and analyzing the resulting data in support of reagent and assay development projects with minimal supervision. This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development objectives focused on leading-edge biomarker measurements and technology.

• Designs and executes experiments, implements plans and performs troubleshooting with minimal supervision, and implements solutions to issues as needed.
• Analyzes data using spreadsheets and graphing software. Prepares clear and concise presentations, including thoughtful summaries and recommendations for next steps. Presents to peer and supervisor review groups.
• 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.

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, or related area is required.
• Master’s degree is preferred.
• A minimum of four (4) years of related work experience is required, including hands‑on laboratory experience.
• 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 preferred.

• 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.
• 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 work both independently and as an effective team member.
• Ability to execute complex experiments and to identify issues and propose/execute troubleshooting.
• Strong data analysis skills. Proficient in MS Excel. Knowledge of Graph Pad Prism and SharePoint is a plus. Working knowledge of statistics.

• 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 position’s 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.

• Laboratory environment working with chemical reagents and performing some Biosafety Level 2 work.
• May involve handling of BSL-2 materials and organisms including human blood and/or blood products.

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $78,100. to $116,200. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of…