Research and Development Scientist

Reporting to the Vice President of Biomanufacturing Development for the ETSU Research Corporation, the Research and Development Scientist serves as an individual contributor in a hands-on technical role spanning synthetic biology, industrial biomanufacturing, process scale-up and scale-down, and bioprocess development.

About the role

The position assists with experimental design; performs laboratory procedures; compiles, analyzes, and interprets data; and supports the successful completion of experiments conducted by the ETSU Research Corporation at the Valleybrook campus. The R&D Scientist also operates current and future laboratory and bioprocessing equipment in support of projects conducted both on-site and at off-site locations.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute scientifically sound experiments, analyze results, and adjust approaches based on findings.
• Perform laboratory procedures including microbial cell culture and fermentation using shake flasks, fermenters, bioreactors, and/or chemostats.
• Operate and troubleshoot laboratory and bioprocessing equipment, including pumps, valves, sensors, and electrical signals.
• Apply knowledge of microbiological principles, methods, and techniques, including reliable aseptic practices.
• Utilize downstream processing technologies and ensure compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), including laboratory safety, PPE, documentation, traceability, validation, and standardized workflows.
• Work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), equipment automation, and process control systems; interpret process and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Calibrate sensors, scale and range signals, and troubleshoot microbial growth performance.
• Use basic hand tools (e.g., screwdrivers, wrenches, utility knives) and common computer applications (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Communicate complex scientific and technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
• Collaborate effectively, exercise initiative, sound judgment, and critical thinking in technical discussions.
• Maintain accountability, adaptability, and resilience in response to experimental setbacks or changing priorities.
• Work established schedules and occasional nonstandard hours to support time-sensitive experiments or processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, life sciences, or a related field, plus at least one year of hands-on experience operating benchtop bioreactors and downstream processing equipment and designing and conducting microbial trials.
• OR a combination of education and work experience.
• US Citizenship is required for this position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with multivariable experimental design (Design of Experiments, DoE).
• Master’s degree in biology, life science, or a related field.
• At least one year of hands-on operation of biometric shake flasks.

Benefits

For information on benefits, please visit Employee Benefits.

Pay

Job Family – Researcher 3, Market Range - 7 (refer to salary schedules for details).

Job posting number: #7367740. Posted: July 30, 2026. Open until filled.