Associate Scientist

This role is located in Wilmington, Delaware, United States.

About the role

We are seeking a Biopharma R&D Laboratory Scientist to support cutting-edge research in polymer technologies for biopharmaceutical processing and formulation. This role involves hands-on experimental work, data analysis, and technical problem-solving in a collaborative research environment that drives impactful solutions for the biopharma market.

Responsibilities

• Support scientific innovation by preparing and executing experiments for polymer technologies in biopharmaceutical applications.
• Perform laboratory tasks, including:
  • Sterile mammalian cell culture (suspension, adherent, and bioreactor operations).
  • Solution and formulation preparation using manual and automated pipetting techniques.
  • Operation of analytical and characterization equipment (e.g., cell counting, metabolite analysis, absorbance/fluorescence/luminescence assays, flow cytometry, HPLC/SEC, light microscopy).
• Develop and implement experimental plans independently, troubleshoot issues, and recommend process improvements.
• Ensure data integrity by following good laboratory practice, accurately recording observations, and preparing clear summaries for internal and external reports.
• Maintain and optimize equipment, including calibration, repair coordination, and SOP development.
• Contribute to team success by training colleagues, identifying process improvements, and promoting Environmental, Health & Safety (EH&S) best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical/Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field with 3–5 years of experience, OR
• Associate’s Degree with 7+ years of experience.
• Exceptional recent graduates with relevant research experience will be considered.

Skills

• Hands-on laboratory experience with experimental methods, analytical techniques, and troubleshooting instrumentation.
• Familiarity with excipients, ingredients, and materials used in biopharmaceutical formulations or processes (e.g., recombinant protein production, viral vector development, cell therapies).
• Strong problem-solving, multitasking, and time management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.
• Ability to learn new technologies and apply chemistry/biology principles to improve processes.
• Commitment to safety and quality in all aspects of work.
• Proficiency in standard software (Word, Excel) and relevant laboratory systems.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and operate laboratory equipment.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with scale-down bioreactor systems (Ambr, DasBox, PBS-Mini, or similar).
• Work with CAR-T, HEK293, CHO, or hMSC cell lines/process development.
• Knowledge of water-soluble or gel-forming polymers for pharmaceutical dosage forms or excipient characterization.

Pay

The current salary range for this role is $86,000–95,000. This position may also be eligible to earn performance-based incentive compensation. The specific compensation offered to a candidate will be influenced by a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits.
• 6.2% company retirement contribution.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Generous paid time off and 12 annual paid company holidays.
• 12 weeks 100% paid maternity leave, and up to 4 weeks 100% paid parental leave (including adoption/surrogacy/foster care leave) for non-birthing parents.
• Student loan repayment assistance and tuition reimbursement program for select roles.
• Annual wellness benefit and wellness-centered programs focused on your health needs.