Senior Scientist , Method Development

Senior Scientist I, Method Development

Location:

Germantown, MD

Compensation: $95k - $115k

Role Summary

The Senior Scientist, Method Development is responsible for leading the design, execution, and interpretation of bioanalytical large molecule assay development studies in support of preclinical and clinical programs. This role works hands-on at the bench, collaborates closely with internal stakeholders and sponsors, and helps ensure methods are scientifically sound, fit for purpose, and aligned with project timelines and regulatory expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day method development activities for assigned preclinical and clinical programs.
• Design, execute, analyze, and document experiments in accordance with SOPs, regulatory expectations, and project needs.
• Serve as a technical contact for sponsors and internal teams, including routine study updates and scientific discussions.
• Support proposal development, scoping, and quote preparation with the Director and Business Development team, when necessary.
• Review, interpret, and present study data clearly to internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide scientific oversight, guidance, and mentoring to junior laboratory staff.
• Troubleshoot experimental issues and support refinement of methods through development and validation stages.
• Contribute scientific visibility through conference attendance, presentations, posters, or publications when appropriate.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• PhD in a scientific discipline with 5–6 years of experience in regulated large molecule bioanalytical environments, including 3–4 years of independent method development leadership.
• Master's degree with 6–7 years of relevant experience, including 4–5 years of independent method development leadership.
• Bachelor's degree with 7–8 years of relevant experience, including at least 5-6 years in a regulated environment supporting large molecule drug development.
• Demonstrated ability to develop robust, plate based and cell based, fit-for-purpose bioanalytical methods (PK, ADA and Biomarkers) for modalities such as monoclonal antibodies, bi-specifics, ADCs, ASOs, and peptides.
• Extensive experience using multiple established LBA platforms (e.g., Spectrophotometer, MSD, Revitty Alpha Lisa, Gyros, or similar established assay platforms).
• Hands-on experience with FLOW and PCR based platforms is an added plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience leading client discussions and managing multiple priorities effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and standard laboratory calculations.
• Experience with Soft Max and Watson LIMS preferred.

Success Criteria

• Methods are developed on time, meet scientific and project requirements, and are suitable for the intended stage of drug development pathway.
• Study execution is organized, compliant, and well documented.
• Sponsor and internal stakeholder communications are timely, clear, and professional.
• Experimental issues are identified quickly and resolved with sound scientific judgment.
• Data is interpreted accurately and presented in a way that supports program decisions.
• Junior staff receive effective scientific guidance and oversight.
• This role contributes to strong client experience and consistent delivery of high-quality assay development work.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a laboratory environment, including exposure to biohazardous materials and potentially hazardous chemicals.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, and perform repetitive pipetting and computer work for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and transport materials up to 20 lbs regularly, and up to 35 lbs occasionally.

Why Pharmaron?

Pharmaron is a premier service provider for the life sciences industry. Founded in 2004, Pharmaron has invested in its people and facilities and established a broad spectrum of research, development, and manufacturing service capabilities throughout the entire drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic modalities, including small molecules, biologics, and CGT products. With over 21,000 employees and operations in the U.S., the U.K. and…