Scientist, Research & Development

Ricoh Biosciences, Inc. (formerly Elixirgen Scientific), founded in 2016, is a Baltimore-based biotechnology company specializing in stem cell technology and a member of the Ricoh Group. Our mission is to lead medical innovation by harnessing the potential of iPSC differentiation technology to advance drug discovery and revolutionize cell therapy. We deliver state-of-the-art, customized solutions to empower researchers, clinicians, and the pharmaceutical industry from our location in the Science + Technology Park at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore.

About the role

The Scientist, R&D role requires advanced scientific knowledge and extensive experience in stem cell biology and related research areas. The successful candidate will be an effective bench scientist, communicator, innovator, and emerging leader who can drive scientific innovation and research excellence. This position is a development track toward a future Lead Scientist or scientific leadership role, seeking candidates who excel at the bench today and have the potential to grow into broader scientific and team leadership over time.

Responsibilities

• Lead scientific efforts within the organization, including R&D and service projects.
• Develop and execute scientific strategies in the wet lab, defining experimental designs and executing experiments with precision and accuracy (90–100% on-site).
• Oversee and manage research projects, ensuring timely and high-quality completion, including leading interdisciplinary matrix research teams and collaborating with scientists, experts, and customers.
• Stay current with scientific developments and technological advancements, identifying opportunities for innovation.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including academic institutions, government agencies, industry partners, and funding organizations.
• Ensure research and development activities comply with relevant regulatory requirements and quality standards, particularly in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
• Train, mentor, and develop junior scientific talent, building leadership skills expected of a future Lead.
• Prepare and present reports, publications, and presentations on research findings and progress to stakeholders, including customers.
• Contribute to the scientific vision and goals of the team, shaping research direction.
• Support the identification, patenting, and protection of intellectual property generated from research.
• Ensure research is conducted to the highest ethical standards and help identify and mitigate risks (safety, compliance, and project timelines).

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant field such as neuroscience, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, pharmacology, or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience in mammalian cell culture, imaging, and analysis.
• 3 years of experience in drug discovery or cell therapy within pharmaceutical companies.
• Good understanding of protocols and report documentation.
• Proven experience in managing and driving research projects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership potential and aspiration to grow into a Lead Scientist or scientific leadership role.
• Experience mentoring or guiding junior scientists.
• Strategic thinking and ability to drive scientific innovation.
• Experience managing and collaborating with Contract Research Organizations (CROs).
• Networking skills to build and maintain relationships in the pharmaceutical industry.

Pay

The expected base salary range for this position is $62,000 - $115,700 per year. Placement within this range depends on job-related factors including experience, education, and technical skills, as well as internal equity. This position is also eligible for Ricoh Biosciences' benefits program and a discretionary bonus plan.

Schedule

Standard work hours are Monday through Friday, 9am – 5pm. Some evening and weekend work may be required as assigned by management.

Work Environment

This is an on-site, laboratory-based position located at the Science and Technology Park of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. The role may require standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods; using hands to handle objects, tools, or controls; reaching with hands and arms; and lifting up to 40 lbs. Occasional travel, including international, may be required.