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Assay Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MSD

Scientist, Assay Development (Onsite)

West Point, PA · On-site

$87K - $137K/yr

In this role, the scientist will work with mammalian cell cultures or isolated samples from in vivo studies to perform genetic toxicology assays. * The individual will work in close collaboration ...

Merck & Co.

$87K - $137K/yr

In this role, the scientist will work with mammalian cell cultures or isolated samples from in vivo studies to perform genetic toxicology assays.-The individual will work in close collaboration with ...

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How much do assay scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay scientist in the United States is $38.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.89 and $42.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assay scientist?

An assay scientist is a professional who develops, performs, and analyzes laboratory tests called assays to measure the presence or concentration of specific substances in samples. They often work in pharmaceutical, biotech, or research settings, utilizing techniques such as ELISA, PCR, or chromatography, and may require knowledge of laboratory safety and data analysis tools. Their role is essential for drug development, quality control, and scientific research.

What is the highest paid scientist job?

In the field of assay science, senior roles such as Principal Scientist or Director of Research tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities within pharmaceutical, biotech, or research organizations.

What are some common challenges Assay Scientists face when developing new assays, and how can they overcome them?

Assay Scientists often encounter challenges such as optimizing assay sensitivity and specificity, troubleshooting inconsistent results, and ensuring reproducibility across multiple runs. These issues require strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and thorough documentation practices. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams such as research scientists, statisticians, and laboratory technicians is crucial for resolving technical hurdles and refining protocols. Staying updated on the latest assay technologies and validation standards also helps in overcoming obstacles effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assay Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assay Scientist, you need a solid background in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, typically with at least a bachelor's or master's degree and laboratory experience. Familiarity with analytical instruments, assay platforms (such as ELISA, PCR, or HPLC), and relevant data analysis software is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills for designing, optimizing, and interpreting experiments. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and reproducibility of scientific results in research and development settings.

Which scientist is highly paid?

In the field of assay science, senior-level scientists such as Principal Scientists or Directors tend to have higher salaries due to their experience, leadership responsibilities, and specialized skills. Generally, scientists with advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive industry experience earn the highest compensation in this area.

What are the 20 types of scientists?

Scientists can be categorized into various fields such as biologists, chemists, physicists, geologists, astronomers, environmental scientists, medical scientists, computer scientists, social scientists, mathematicians, forensic scientists, materials scientists, oceanographers, atmospheric scientists, neuroscientists, agricultural scientists, data scientists, forensic scientists, pharmacologists, and biochemists. Each specializes in specific areas of research and often requires relevant training, certifications, and laboratory skills. Assay scientists, for example, typically work in biomedical or pharmaceutical labs focusing on analytical testing and validation.

What does an Assay Scientist do?

An Assay Scientist is responsible for developing, optimizing, and validating laboratory tests (assays) to analyze biological samples. They design experiments to measure the presence or activity of specific substances, such as proteins, enzymes, or drugs, often using techniques like ELISA, PCR, or mass spectrometry. Assay Scientists play a vital role in pharmaceutical research, diagnostics, and quality control by ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results. Their work supports drug discovery, clinical trials, and the development of new diagnostic tools.

What is the difference between Assay Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssay ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences, relevant lab certificationsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in related field, often with specialized research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on assay development, validation, and testingResearch labs, academic institutions, or industry R&D departments
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, biotech, diagnostics companiesUniversities, research institutes, industry R&D divisions
Common Search & ComparisonAssay Scientist vs Research Scientist

Assay Scientists primarily focus on developing and validating laboratory tests and assays, often within industry settings like biotech or pharma. Research Scientists typically conduct broader scientific research, including experimental design and data analysis, often in academic or industry R&D. While both roles require strong laboratory skills and relevant credentials, Assay Scientists specialize in assay-specific tasks, whereas Research Scientists have a broader research scope.

More about Assay Scientist jobs
What states have the most Assay Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Assay Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assay Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assay Scientist jobs are:
Assay Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assay Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,095 per year, or $39 per hour.
Associate Scientist - Analytical Assay

Associate Scientist - Analytical Assay

Eurofins Scientific

Saint Louis, MO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Eurofins rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 180 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 105 rated laboratories

Job description

Company Description

Eurofins Scientific is an international life sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins works with the biggest companies in the world to ensure the products they supply are safe, their ingredients are authentic and labelling is accurate.

Job Description

The position will be providing analytical support to biotherapeutic process development teams, specifically focusing on large molecules (proteins, polysaccharides, nucleic acids, etc.).

Candidates will work in a large diverse team, helping with advancing cutting edge pharmaceutical research. Some to the techniques that our future team members will need to be familiar with are:

  • Ultraviolet and visual light spectroscopy (UV-Vis)
  • Analytical chromatographic separations (HPLC)
  • Small-volume multichannel pipetting skills and plate-based assays
  • pH Appearance
  • Gels, SDS Page, AGE, experience with gel-based assay
Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Authorization to work in the United States indefinitely without restriction or sponsorship

  • Experience with the following techniques; 
    • HPLC, SEC
    • Western Blotting 
    • SOLO VPE, pH Appearance
    • SDS Page AGE, CGE, experience with gel-based assay

Bachelors or Masters Degree in Biological or Chemical Science.

Candidates within a commutable distance of Chesterfield, MO are encouraged to apply

  • Preferred experience: 
    • Experience with protein immunoblotting technology and attention to detail. Ability to operate independently after receiving direction
    • Electronic laboratory notebook systems and/or GMP documentation practice
    • Empower or OpenLabs Software
Additional Information

Position is full-time, Monday to Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm. Candidates currently living within a commutable distance of Chesterfield, MO are encouraged to apply.

What we offer:

Comprehensive medical coverage, with dental and vision options

Life and disability insurance

Paid holidays and vacation.

Eurofins USA PSS Insourcing Solutions is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

What Eurofins employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Eurofins

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Scientific research and development services, biotechnology research and development and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Leacock, PA, US

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