The Principal Bioanalytical Scientist functions as a Bioanalytical Principal Investigator (BPI), providing technical guidance and expertise in executing sample analysis studies and analytical method validations. This includes managing multiple projects, overseeing the analytical schedule in coordination with laboratory management, and providing guidance to bioanalytical testing staff and other team members as needed. This role will interact with customers to ensure the studies are managed under the appropriate regulatory scope, review study data, and conduct applicable data analysis as required by each project. This position will also assist in identifying and implementing departmental initiatives and strategies and will directly supervise the work of others.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Manage multiple sample analysis and method validation projects concurrently in the Bioanalytical Laboratory utilizing appropriate protocols and in compliance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) as required. This role is expected to independently handle projects with high technical or logistical complexity.
Plan and oversee individual experiments as required for each project
Ensure resources (reagents, materials, equipment) are available and appropriate for intended use by laboratory staff
Approve documentation associated with executed projects including data analysis and reporting
Provide technical guidance and mentoring to bioanalytical testing staff and other team members as needed in the execution of bioanalytical projects as well as GLP/GCLP best practices
Lead and/or support implementation of process improvements in support of laboratory initiatives and strategies
Interpret, organize and present study results as required for each project
Oversee/mentor more junior team members in the interpretation, organization, and presentation of study results
Verify the accuracy and validity of data
Ensure that out-of-specification results or deviations from protocol are properly documented
Present summaries of troubleshooting efforts and proposed solutions/conclusions to laboratory management and other BAL scientific staff
Review lot qualification data
Monitor material inventory, project-specific materials in particular, to ensure no impediments to completing studies
Draft appropriate study plans, reports, and documents and review project-related documentation generated by more junior team members
Review analytical reports for completeness and compliance with study requirements
Adhere to principles of GLP/GCLP applicable to bioanalytical sample testing, data analysis and reporting
Adhere to all laboratory safety policies and procedures including proper use of all required personal protective equipment (PPE); monitor the behavior of laboratory staff and proactively address departures from best practices for laboratory safety
Establish and monitor direct report performance and development goals, assign accountabilities, set objectives, and provide continuous feedback and recognition on performance
Responsible for training and development of laboratory personnel
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
Ph.D. in Biology, Chemistry, or related scientific discipline preferred
Additional postdoctoral or industrial experience preferred
Master's degree may be considered with a minimum of 3 additional years of related experience
Hands-on laboratory work experience running immunoassays/ligand-based assays is required
Minimum of 10 years of overall work experience in positions of increasing responsibility is required; experience in biological sample testing is highly preferred; experience with the MSD platform is highly preferred; experience in a clinical research organization (CRO) or other regulated environment is highly preferred; academic setting considered
Training in and experience with Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) techniques is required
Training in and experience with GLP and/or GCLP is required
Experience working in a high complexity/high-throughput/fast-paced lab is required
Minimum of four years of supervisory/mentoring/management experience is required
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Advanced understanding of ligand-binding assays
Advanced level knowledge of GLP/GCLP principles as they apply to bioanalytical laboratories
Demonstrated expertise in scientific principles and analytical thinking
Demonstrated ability to work independently, analyze data and write reports
Ability to effectively oversee assays run in a fast-paced environment with a focus on high-quality results
Expert level ability with regards to troubleshooting technical issues and providing solutions to complex problems
Effective leadership skills with demonstrated knowledge and understanding of staff management practices and processes and the ability to establish accountabilities and expectations and manage performance to achieve results
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work well with employees at all levels
Effectively communicate issues/problems and results that impact timelines, accuracy and reliability of laboratory data
Effectively communicate performance goals and expectations
Proficiency in MS Office suite; familiarity with electronic file management using SharePoint (end user minimum)
Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple and often changing priorities and issues of varying complexity, while meeting time-sensitive deadlines and deliverables
Intermediate level statistical knowledge
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and move about the office and laboratory.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
This position is primarily performed in a traditional office environment
Other assigned responsibilities will be performed in a laboratory environment up to 20% of the time, working with staff who are handling chemical reagents and performing some Biosafety Level 2 work
May involve handling of BSL-2 materials and organisms including human blood and/or blood products.
COMPENSATION SUMMARY:
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $128,300 to $200,500. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY:
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO/AA STATEMENT:
MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please click on the following link: https://www.mesoscale.com/en/our_company/careers/equal_employment_opportunity_statement.
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