Staff Scientist - Stem Cell & Developmental Biology

About the role

MRIGlobal solves challenging problems through science, engineering, and program management. We are an independent scientific research organization dedicated to benefiting society and fostering a safe, healthy, and sustainable environment. Established in 1944, MRIGlobal is headquartered in Kansas City, MO, working in several states including Virginia and Maryland. As a Staff Scientist at MRIGlobal, you will contribute to innovative research in stem cell and developmental biology, apply cutting-edge science to real-world challenges, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver impactful solutions for government, commercial, and research clients.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experimental studies involving stem cells, organoids, and advanced in vitro model systems.
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot laboratory methods, protocols, and experimental workflows.
• Analyze and interpret experimental results and help identify future research directions.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and project teams to solve complex challenges in human health and biotechnology.
• Contribute to technical reports, publications, presentations, proposals, and client deliverables.
• Apply scientific expertise and creative problem-solving to support the successful execution of innovative research programs.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Stem Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Reproductive Biology, or a closely related life science discipline, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience consistent with the Staff Scientist level.
• Demonstrated experience working with mammalian stem cells, including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), primary cells, organoids, or other advanced cell culture systems.
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute complex research activities and contribute to collaborative research programs.
• Strong experimental design and problem-solving skills, including protocol development, troubleshooting, and optimization.
• Evidence of original or collaborative research contributions through publications, presentations, dissertations, or equivalent scholarly work.
• Demonstrated ability to design, execute, and interpret research studies using advanced scientific principles.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze outcomes, interpret results, and adapt research strategies based on experimental findings.
• Experience serving in task leadership within larger research projects.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience maintaining accurate, organized, and traceable laboratory records.
• Commitment to laboratory safety, security, and quality standards.
• Willingness to work in BSL-2 and BSL-3 laboratory environments and with hazardous compounds, as required by specific programs.
• U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience in stem cell biology, developmental biology, reproductive biology, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, or related disciplines.
• Experience with organoids, microphysiological systems, organ-on-chip platforms, bioreactors, perfusion systems, or other advanced in vitro tissue models.
• Experience with in vitro gametogenesis or reproductive model systems.
• Experience with advanced microscopy and imaging techniques, including fluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy, live-cell imaging, image acquisition, and image analysis.
• Strong molecular and cellular biology laboratory skills.
• Experience in applied research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, diagnostics, government-funded, or contract research environments.

Pay

Salary range: $81,00 - $90,000. The salary range is intended as a general guideline and is not a guaranteed offer, as compensation depends on various factors such as scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate qualifications, experience, internal equity, and market conditions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and life insurance
• Disability coverage
• Gym reimbursement
• Mental health support
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Virtual coaching and no-cost counseling
• Onsite health screenings
• Award-winning employer retirement matches
• No-cost financial education benefits
• Paid parental leave
• Flexible culture encouraging work-life integration
• Tuition reimbursement for higher education
• Seasonal staff events, DEI celebrations, and volunteer initiatives