Senior Scientist

About the role

The Senior Scientist position is located in the San Diego, CA location within the Infectious Disease, Diagnostics Division of Abbott. This role focuses on executing and conducting research, development, or scientific/technical activities in molecular biology and biochemistry.

Responsibilities

• Lead the investigation, development, and implementation of innovative methods, technologies, and assay solutions that advance strategic project objectives.
• Independently design and execute complex experiments, analyze data, and drive scientific decision-making to achieve critical milestones.
• Serve as a technical subject matter expert, leading highly complex experimental studies and troubleshooting efforts.
• Identify risks, develop mitigation strategies, and resolve challenging technical and assay design issues with minimal oversight.
• Drive scientific direction for complex projects and contribute to multiple programs simultaneously.
• Provide technical leadership and influence project strategy through scientific expertise, critical thinking, and sound judgment.
• Apply advanced knowledge of molecular biology techniques, including qPCR, RT-PCR, digital PCR, rapid PCR, multiplex PCR, nested PCR, isothermal amplification and related technologies, to develop robust solutions and generate high-quality data that support key business and scientific objectives.
• Lead experimental design, data interpretation, root-cause analysis, and problem-solving activities for complex technical challenges.
• Translate findings into actionable recommendations and project strategies.
• Independently plan, prioritize, and execute projects of moderate to large scope while ensuring alignment with program timelines, objectives, and resource requirements.
• Author, review, and communicate scientific findings through technical reports, protocols, study summaries, presentations, and other documentation in compliance with applicable Quality System requirements.
• Effectively present technical concepts and recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders and leadership.
• Collaborate across functional teams, including R&D, Systems Engineering, Regulatory Affairs, Quality, Clinical, Manufacturing, and Program Management, to drive project execution and overall program success.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to Scientists, Research Associates, and other team members. Foster scientific development through training, coaching, and review of experimental design, data analysis, and troubleshooting approaches.
• Contribute to technology roadmaps, intellectual property generation, scientific publications, and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance organizational capabilities and innovation.

Requirements

• B.S. in biological or physical science, or mathematics. 5+ years of progressive responsible position in a research development environment.
• Practical Lab Skills with increasing knowledge complexity with experience.
• More advanced Problem-solving skills with experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field; Ph.D. with relevant industry experience preferred.
• M.S. with six (6) or more years of directly relevant industry experience considered.
• Minimum of eight (8) years of progressively responsible laboratory or industry experience, with demonstrated contributions to complex scientific projects and product development initiatives.
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience developing rapid molecular diagnostic assays from concept through verification and validation.
• Extensive experience in experimental design, assay optimization, analytical characterization, data analysis, interpretation, troubleshooting, and root-cause investigations.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools, including Excel, JMP, and/or equivalent software, with the ability to derive actionable insights from complex datasets.
• Experience authoring and reviewing technical reports, protocols, study plans, verification and validation documentation, and other regulated development deliverables.
• Experience with assay Verification and Validation preferred.
• Advanced understanding of scientific principles and methodologies, with the ability to apply broad technical knowledge and strategic thinking to solve complex challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, influence project direction, and effectively collaborate within cross-functional teams.
• Experience mentoring and providing technical guidance to junior scientists, research associates, and cross-functional team members.

Benefits

At Abbott, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Career development with an international company where you can grow the career you dream of.
• Employees can qualify for free medical coverage in our Health Investment Plan (HIP) PPO medical plan in the next calendar year.
• An excellent retirement savings plan with a high employer contribution.
• Tuition reimbursement, the Freedom 2 Save student debt program, and FreeU education benefit - an affordable and convenient path to getting a bachelor’s degree.
• A company recognized as a great place to work in dozens of countries worldwide and named one of the most admired companies in the world by Fortune.
• A company that is recognized as one of the best big companies to work for as well as the best place to work for diversity, working mothers, female executives, and scientists.

Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives : https://abbottbenefits.com/

Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that can help you build your future and live your best life.

Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to employee diversity.