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Assay Development Scientist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Associate Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$78K - $116K/yr

... assay development projects with minimal supervision. This is a laboratory-based position ... EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor's degree in life sciences, or related area is required ...

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$74K - $124K/yr

Scientist Travel Required: None Clearance Required: Ability to Obtain Public Trust What You Will Do ... Conduct analytical assay development and perform analytical assays in support of the assessment of ...

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$74K - $124K/yr

Scientist Travel Required: None Clearance Required: Ability to Obtain Public Trust What You Will Do ... Conduct analytical assay development and perform analytical assays in support of the assessment of ...

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$74 - $124/hr

Scientist**Travel Required:**None**Clearance Required:**Ability to Obtain Public Trust**What You ... Conduct analytical assay development and perform analytical assays in support of the assessment of ...

Conduct laboratory-based translational research with a focus on drug development for the treatment ... Initiate, design, and develop new projects or assays that can enable the Center for Cancer Research ...

Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$65 - $108/hr

Operate advanced genetic, biological, and biochemical assays, including DNA transfection, monolayer ... DisabilityTuition Reimbursement, Personal Development, Certifications & Learning ...

New

Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Work with staff on assay design and method development using an array or experimentation ... Manage scientific equipment and resources (e.g. reagents, stocks of frozen cells, animal samples ...

... scientific discipline, or equivalent work experience is required * Master's degree is preferred * Minimum 2 years of work experience in biological sample testing or reagent/assay development in an ...

Scientist, Genetic Toxicology Qualifications: Ph.D. in a scientific discipline (i.e. Biology ... Reviews and recommends potential assay developments to upper management, and participates in ...

Scientist, Genetic Toxicology Qualifications: Ph.D. in a scientific discipline (i.e. Biology ... Reviews and recommends potential assay developments to upper management, and participates in ...

Showing results 41-60

Assay Development Scientist information

See Washington salary details

$23

$43

$69

How much do assay development scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay development scientist in Washington is $43.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.12 and $52.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assay development scientist?

An Assay Development Scientist designs, optimizes, and validates biochemical and cell-based assays for drug discovery, diagnostics, or research applications. They work with a variety of techniques such as ELISA, PCR, and high-throughput screening to measure biological or chemical responses. Their role involves troubleshooting, data analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure assay accuracy and reproducibility.

What does an assay development scientist do?

A typical day for an Assay Development Scientist involves designing experiments, running and optimizing biochemical or cell-based assays, analyzing data, and documenting results. You will often collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including research scientists, project managers, and quality assurance specialists, to ensure assays meet project requirements. Regular meetings to discuss progress, troubleshoot technical challenges, and plan next steps are common. The role also involves staying up-to-date with new technologies and industry standards to continuously improve assay performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assay development scientist?

To thrive as an Assay Development Scientist, you need a strong background in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, along with experience in assay design, optimization, and validation. Proficiency with laboratory instrumentation such as plate readers, liquid handlers, and data analysis software (e.g., GraphPad Prism or SoftMax Pro), as well as familiarity with regulatory guidelines, is often required. Effective problem-solving, meticulous attention to detail, and strong communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These abilities ensure the successful development of reliable assays, facilitate collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, and support impactful scientific advancements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington are:

What job categories do people searching Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Assay Development Scientist jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Assay Development Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Assay Development Scientist job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,083 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

$78K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for designing and executing experiments and analyzing the resulting data in support of reagent and assay development projects with minimal supervision. This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development objectives focused on leading-edge biomarker measurements and technology.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Designs and executes experiments, implements plans and performs troubleshooting with minimal supervision, and implements solutions to issues as needed.

• Analyzes data using spreadsheets and graphing software.  Prepares clear and concise presentations, including thoughtful summaries and recommendations for next steps. Presents to peer and supervisor review groups.  

• Leads and participates in general lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining laboratory supplies and equipment, maintaining electronic inventory list database, physical inventory, processing/aliquotting/vialing/labeling materials, and preparing and maintaining reagent inventories. 

• May be selected to monitor and report on the infrastructure of a particular lab or functional area.

• Specific duties may vary depending upon departmental requirements. 

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, or related area is required. 

o Master’s degree is preferred. 

  • A minimum of four (4) years of related work experience is required, including hands-on laboratory experience.

• Experience with running antibody-based assays, developing reagents and product development is required. 

• Training in and experience with Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) techniques is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong knowledge of scientific fundamentals with an analytical background.

• Advanced knowledge of immunoassay technology.  

• Demonstrated aptitude for learning of and adhering to standard laboratory techniques and safety precautions.

• Solid communication (written and verbal) skills regardless of the format (e.g., documents, public speaking situations, presentations, etc.).

• 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.

• Attention to detail with demonstrated commitment to excellence and performance. 

• Demonstrated propensity to be creative, collaborative, proactive, and self-motivated in the execution and completion of assigned tasks.  

• Ability to work both independently and as an effective team member. 

• Ability to execute complex experiments and to identify issues and propose/execute troubleshooting.  

• Strong data analysis skills. Proficient in MS Excel. Knowledge of GraphPad Prism and SharePoint is a plus.  Working knowledge of statistics.  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms. 

• Up to 75 % of the day may be spent at a lab bench.

• There are aspects of the position’s duties that require a person in this role to work at heights above four (4) feet on occasion and move/lift up to 25 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Laboratory environment working with chemical reagents and performing some Biosafety Level 2 work. 

o 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 $78,100. to $116,200. 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 visit here.

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