Scientist III, In Vitro Biology

Our client is a global, research-driven pharmaceutical manufacturer focusing on treatment options for diseases and conditions for which there is no satisfactory treatment option to date. The company is looking for a Scientist III, In Vitro Biology to join the team. This is an amazing opportunity to work on cutting edge treatments and make a difference! Job type: 1 year contract Pay rate: $50- $53/hr. Location: Ridgefield, CT Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced research professional to support drug discovery and development through the design, execution, and interpretation of in vitro cell-based and biochemical assays. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong technical expertise, scientific independence, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot experiments, evaluate new technologies, and contribute to collaborative research initiatives. This role also involves mentoring junior scientists, maintaining high standards of data integrity, and ensuring compliance with laboratory safety and regulatory requirements. A recurring commitment of approximately 2–4 hours each weekend is required, with flexible scheduling. Responsibilities Independently design, execute, and interpret routine in vitro studies, troubleshoot experimental challenges, and recommend appropriate follow-up experiments.Develop and perform non-routine cell-based and biochemical assays using scientific literature and published protocols, with minimal supervision.Conduct literature searches, evaluate scientific publications, attend scientific meetings, and stay current with advances in the field.Independently operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment.Recommend new experimental approaches and technologies based on scientific rationale and an understanding of the drug discovery and development process.Provide technical guidance and contribute to the training of laboratory technicians and junior scientists.Communicate scientific findings effectively through presentations, technical reports, protocols, and other research documentation.Maintain accurate and up-to-date electronic laboratory notebooks and ensure the integrity and ethical reporting of experimental data.Perform all laboratory activities in accordance with applicable regulations, standard operating procedures, safety requirements, and established policies.Provide business operations support for approximately 2–4 hours each weekend, with flexible scheduling. Qualifications Master’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline with at least 3 years of related experience, or Bachelor’s degree with at least 7 years of related experience, or equivalent relevant experience. Ph.D. candidates are not eligible.Hands-on experience with aseptic mammalian cell culture and molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, RT-PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and transfection.Demonstrated ability to independently design experiments, execute laboratory procedures, interpret results, and troubleshoot experimental challenges.Experience with human pluripotent stem cell culture is preferred.Pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or contract research organization (CRO) experience is highly desirable.Strong scientific problem-solving, critical-thinking, and analytical skills, with the ability to evaluate and implement new technologies.Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and scientific data analysis software, such as GraphPad Prism.