1

Associate Scientist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Under scientific and administrative direction, they will design, plan, and execute experiments to identify useful enzymatic transformations, determine improvements in enzyme variants, and develop ...

New

Under scientific and administrative direction, they will design, plan, and execute experiments to identify useful enzymatic transformations, determine improvements in enzyme variants, and develop ...

New

Scientist - Companion Animal Vaccines

Portage, MI · On-site

$33 - $41.50/hr

Senior Associate Scientist / Scientist, Companion Animals/Equine Biologicals Zoetis Veterinary Medicine Research and Development (VMRD), Companion Animal / Equine Biologicals (CAE) group in Kalamazoo ...

The Biologics Analytical Research & Development department (BAR&D) is seeking an Associate Principal Scientist position at the Rahway, New Jersey site. This role is a laboratory-based scientific role ...

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 ...

New

The Biologics Analytical Research & Development department (BAR&D) is seeking an Associate Principal Scientist position at the Rahway, New Jersey site. This role is a laboratory-based scientific role ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Scientist information

See Michigan salary details

$16

$31

$50

How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in Michigan is $31.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.33 and $35.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate scientist do?

An Associate Scientist is a professional who supports research and development projects, typically in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and document results under the supervision of senior scientists. Associate Scientists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and product development by performing laboratory tasks, maintaining equipment, and following established protocols. Their work contributes to discoveries, quality control, and regulatory compliance within their organization.

What is an associate scientist?

An associate scientist takes on more responsibilities than an assistant scientist, supporting research and each experiment under the lead scientist, often in a laboratory environment. As an associate scientist, there are many industries you can work in, including the research field where the lead scientist oversees your project, and you help author papers. Many pharmaceutical companies hire associate scientists to analyze samples to develop drugs and assist with preclinical and clinical studies. Private companies need you to produce specialty chemicals for their clients. Materials scientists at the associate level conduct research and test the properties of metals, plastics, and other materials for their use in new products and packaging. Some positions have duties that include training other team members and overseeing students and fellows.

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

To thrive as an Associate Scientist, you generally need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant scientific field, along with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable experimental outcomes, and productive collaboration within research or product development teams.

What are some common challenges an associate scientist might face when transitioning from academia to industry?

Associate Scientists moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to a faster-paced environment and focusing on project-driven outcomes rather than open-ended research. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on teamwork, meeting strict deadlines, and following standardized protocols. Adjusting to these expectations, learning new technologies, and effectively communicating results to cross-functional teams are key areas where new hires may need support.

What is the difference between Associate Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssociate ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; some roles may require a PhDTypically a Master's or PhD in a related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, governmentBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level or mid-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, career progression

Associate Scientists and Research Scientists often work in similar environments within biotech, pharma, or academic sectors. The main difference lies in experience and educational requirements, with Research Scientists typically holding higher degrees and engaging in more independent or advanced research. Both roles are essential for scientific progress, but Research Scientists usually have more responsibility and autonomy in their projects.

Is an associate scientist entry level?

An associate scientist position is often considered an entry-level or early-career role in research and development, typically requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. It involves performing experiments, data analysis, and supporting scientific projects, with opportunities for skill development and advancement. However, some organizations may require prior experience or specific certifications depending on the complexity of the work.

What degree do you need to be an associate scientist?

An associate scientist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with laboratory skills and experience with scientific tools and techniques.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Scientist jobs in Michigan are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Scientist jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Scientist jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Associate Scientist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Scientist jobs in MI?

For Associate Scientist jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Associate Scientist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,128 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Assoc. Scientist, Biocatalysis (Onsite)

Merck

On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Merck rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Job Description

Position Description  

The Biocatalysis department, part of the Small Molecule Process Research and Development organization in Rahway, New Jersey, is seeking highly motivated individuals who are looking for an opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment that provides a high degree of technical responsibility. The mission of the group is to invent, develop, and implement biomolecules and biocatalytic processes to advance our company's pipeline and our impact on the scientific community.

The successful candidate will perform hands-on chemical process development using enzymes at scales spanning the range from high-throughput laboratory scale to preparative scale.  Under scientific and administrative direction, they will design, plan, and execute experiments to identify useful enzymatic transformations, determine improvements in enzyme variants, and develop enzyme-catalyzed chemical processes.  As part of project teams, the scientist will work with chemists and engineers to evaluate and develop novel methods of implementing enzymes in chemical reactions. The scientist will be expected to exhibit a mindset of safety and quality compliance and contribute to laboratory operations.

The successful candidate will be required to communicate regularly, clearly, and with confidence as they discuss technical challenges, support laboratory operations, and interface with colleagues within and beyond our department. High levels of innovation, rigor, and self-initiative along with the ability to plan and organize activities are expected.  The successful candidate will join a diverse group of innovative scientists that are driving the next revolution in bioengineering. 

Education Requirements:

  • The position requires a BS or MS in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or biochemical engineering from an accredited college or university by October 2026.

Required Experience and Skills:

  • Experience safely performing laboratory-based research or process development in a biocatalysis-related area.
  • Highly effective communication skills in-person, in writing, and via presentation.
  • Strong organizational, interpersonal collaboration, and time management skills
  • Keen attention to detail and the ability to follow established procedures, policies, and guidelines required to comply with safety, environmental, and GMP expectations in the laboratory and in notebook documentation. 

Preferred Experience and Qualifications:

  • Experience with organic chemical synthesis at the bench including running experiments, analyzing data, and preparing presentations and reports on experimental results and conclusions.
  • Familiarity with process scale-up, moving from high-throughput to preparative scale.
  • Experience with a variety of analytical techniques, such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and process analytical tools such as those associated with Mettler Toledo EasyMax.
  • Experience applying statistics to data analysis and to experimental design (i.e., Design of Experiments); experience in process modeling (e.g., kinetics).
  • Experience with enzyme characterization techniques.
  • Experience with biocatalysis-related technology development.

eligibleforERP

Required Skills:

Analytical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Analytical Development, Bioactive Compounds, Bioanalytical Analysis, Biochemistry, Bioconjugation, Biomolecular Chemistry, Bioprocess Engineering, Bioreactors, Chemical Synthesis, Chemistry, Chromatography, Data Analysis, Data Management, Design of Experiments (DOE), Dosage Forms, Environmental Measurements, Enzyme Kinetics, Enzymology, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Kinetics, Laboratory Operations {+ 9 more}

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

US and Puerto Rico Residents Only:

Our company is committed to inclusion, ensuring that candidates can engage in a hiring process that exhibits their true capabilities. Please click here if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process.

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.  As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.  For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit:

EEOC Know Your Rights

EEOC GINA Supplement​

We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing together, talented, and committed people with diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas, broad experiences, backgrounds, and skills come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another’s thinking and approach problems collectively.

Learn more about your rights, including under California, Colorado and other US State Acts

The salary range for this role is

$ 71.900,00 - $ 113.200,00

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs.

The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits.  Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at .

You can apply for this role through (or via the Workday Jobs Hub if you are a current employee). The application deadline for this position is stated on this posting.

San Francisco Residents Only:  We will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Los Angeles Residents Only:  We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance

Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully 
Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company.  No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails. 

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

VISA Sponsorship:

Travel Requirements:

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

Valid Driving License:

Hazardous Material(s):

Job Posting End Date:

*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE  the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.


Requisition ID: R


What Merck employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom