Scientist I, Microbiology

Position Purpose

This position is a member of the R&D Microbiology team to conduct antimicrobial testing, method development and scientific research in support of New and Existing Product Development (NPD/EPD) pipeline for products in drug (OTC, DIN, NHP), medical device, cosmetic, disinfectant (EPA, DIN) and general household products areas.

Essential Functions And Basic Duties

• Perform antimicrobial testing according to regulatory (FDA/EPA) requirements in a BioSafety Level-2 laboratory.
• Support development of novel methodologies.
• Support projects and scientific endeavors.
• Analyze experimental data, ensuring accuracy and reproducibility.
• Draw meaningful conclusions and guides further development.
• Evaluate root causes and create investigation plans for complex research problems.
• Manage external studies at 3rd party labs.
• Record data in a coherent and reproducible manner.
• Capable of presenting experimental data.
• Lab Support:
  • Responsible for equipment calibration/verification and associated documentation.
  • Optimize laboratory space to ensure an efficient flow of work.
  • Media preparation and glassware processing.
  • Perform regularly scheduled testing of R&D water systems.
  • Manage the laboratory’s documentation for chemical and organism inventory.
  • Perform testing with proper aseptic technique to avoid contamination.
  • Culture maintenance and management.
  • Lab notebook entry and approval.
  • Maintain stocks of organisms relevant to the upcoming studies.

Qualifications

• University Degree in a Biological Science required.
• Required/Knowledge: Previous experience in a regulated R&D environment supporting Antimicrobial Products.
• Strong Microbiology understanding.
• Working knowledge of EPA or FDA regulations.
• Experience Required: Previous internship/experience in a Microbiology Laboratory strongly preferred.
• Ability to articulate previous Microbiology projects, their goals, techniques used and conclusions.
• Proficient with a variety of antimicrobial test methods.

Skills/Abilities

• Analytical and continuous improvement mindset.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal / written).
• Ability to explain science to management.
• Prudent risk taker. Identifies opportunities and takes risks to achieve objectives.

Performance Measurements

• Ability to work in partnership with product development and regulatory functions.
• Able to communicate and cooperate with other team members and cross function teams effectively.
• Demonstrate ability to add value to the organization through scientific excellence.
• Take ownership of assigned tasks and demonstrate initiative in managing deliverables with minimal supervision.
• Maintain accountability for data integrity, documentation, and timely execution of lab work.
• Apply sound judgment in experimental design and troubleshooting, with support from senior scientists.

Benefits

• PDI is pleased to offer comprehensive and affordable benefits for our associates, which includes:
  • Medical, behavioral & prescription drug coverage.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA).
  • Dental.
  • Vision.
  • 401(k) savings plan with company match and profit sharing.
  • Basic and supplemental Life and AD&D insurance.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
  • Short & long-term disability.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Health Advocacy Program.
• PDI also offers many voluntary benefits such as:
  • Legal services.
  • Critical illness.
  • Hospital indemnity.
  • Accident coverage.
  • ID theft and fraud protection.
  • Pet insurance.
  • Employee discounts.
• At PDI, we are also committed to helping our associates maintain a healthy and sustainable work/life balance and are proud to provide associates with paid time off programs including:
  • Sick & safe leave.
  • Vacation.
  • Company & floating holidays.
  • Paid parental leave.
  • Depending on the position we also offer summer hours and flex place/flex time options.