Principal Scientist

About the Role

ICON plc is seeking a Principal Scientist to lead and conduct scientific research aimed at advancing clinical trials and developing innovative therapies. This role will manage sponsor programs, shape assay strategies, and provide expertise for new and complex modalities. The position is based in Lenexa, Kansas (KS) and requires robust method development and knowledge in science for new biological modalities.

Responsibilities

• Perform method development and validation testing using complex ligand-binding analytical methods
• Oversee transfer of LBA methods for large molecules for further bioanalytical testing
• Design and execute experiments for method development under supervision or independently depending on level
• Develop new scientific approaches to method development and communicate these to the global science team
• Depending on level, mentor more junior scientists and advise operations on developed methods
• Review and approve data of other scientists
• Communicate with team members and management regarding project status, purpose, scheduling, problems, etc.
• Communicate and/or participate in communication with clients regarding project status
• Maintain knowledge and skill in all techniques where you perform your work
• Provide scientific input to management and BD about new technology investments and lines of service
• Discuss scientific results with sponsors together with project manager
• Promote ICON utilizing their scientific skills through scientific communication such as external publication of posters and journal articles
• Perform R&D projects
• Train technicians on technical aspects
• Mentor and train staff on scientific topics
• Take initiative in process development and SOP/WI writing
• Maintain legible, logical and reproducible documentation of all experimentation
• Have a thorough understanding of and comply with GLP and other appropriate regulations
• Develop rugged and economical assays
• Perform data review of other scientist's work
• Provide key assay input to the validation and bioanalysis team(s) to ensure successful execution
• Perform assay troubleshooting
• May perform and document maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs on advanced instrumentation with support of service engineers or other trained supervisory personnel

Required Experience

• Ligand binding assays (ELISA, ECLIA)
• PK, PD, and immunogenicity
• Usage of relevant software (e.g. SoftMax Pro, Watson, or equivalent)

Qualifications

• Read, write and speak fluent English
• BS in a scientific discipline required; advanced degree (MS or PhD) preferred
• 5–10 years of industry or academic laboratory experience supporting ligand-binding assays
• Demonstrated method development experience within the clinical or pharmaceutical industry with a track record of managing scientific projects
• Neutralizing antibody or Flow Cytometry experience is beneficial
• Presenter/Publisher in regulated relevant field is nice to have

Benefits

• Various annual leave entitlements
• Range of health insurance offerings to suit you and your family's needs
• Competitive retirement planning offerings to maximize savings and plan with confidence for the years ahead
• Global Employee Assistance Programme, LifeWorks, offering 24-hour access to a global network of over 80,000 independent specialized professionals
• Life assurance
• Flexible country-specific optional benefits, including childcare vouchers, bike purchase schemes, discounted gym memberships, subsidized travel passes, health assessments, among others