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Associate Scientist Jobs in Sun Prairie, WI (NOW HIRING)

Associate degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution or equivalent laboratory training and experience. * 60 ...

Associate degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution or equivalent laboratory training and experience. * 60 ...

Associate degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution or equivalent laboratory training and experience. * 60 ...

Associate degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution or equivalent laboratory training and experience. * 60 ...

Associate Scientist I

Madison, WI · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Associate degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution, or equivalent laboratory training and experience as defined ...

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Associate Scientist information

See Sun Prairie, WI salary details

$18

$34

$55

How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in Sun Prairie, WI is $34.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.12 and $39.76 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 technical skills 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. Some positions 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 Sun Prairie, WI?

The most popular types of Scientist jobs in Sun Prairie, WI are:

What cities near Sun Prairie, WI are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs?

Cities near Sun Prairie, WI with the most Associate Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Scientist job openings in Sun Prairie, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,701 per year, or $35 per hour.

Associate Scientist - Process Development, Downstream

Catalent Pharma Solutions

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Catalent rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Associate Scientist - Process Development, Downstream

Position Summary

  • Shift: Monday - Friday 8am - 4:30pm

  • 100% on-site

Catalent, Inc. is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) whose mission is to develop, manufacture, and supply products that help people live better and healthier lives. Catalent is dedicated to delivering unparalleled service to pharma, biotech, and consumer health customers, supporting product development, launch, and full life-cycle supply. With time-tested experience in development sciences, delivery technologies, and multi-modality manufacturing, Catalent supports the acceleration of development programs and the launch of more than a hundred new products every year. Powered by thousands of scientists and technicians and the latest technology platforms at more than 40 global sites, Catalent supplies billions of doses of life-enhancing and life-saving treatments for patients annually.

The Associate Scientist - Process Development is responsible for supporting the development and optimization of biologic manufacturing processes, including upstream cell culture and downstream purification activities. This role executes laboratory experiments such as seed train scale-up, bioreactor operations, and protein purification while applying standard statistical methods to analyze data and improve process performance. The Associate Scientist will maintain accurate documentation in accordance with SOPs and GMP practices, support tech transfer to manufacturing, and collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams and external clients to ensure successful project delivery in a fast-paced, client-driven environment.

The role:

  • Execute laboratory experiments supporting upstream process development, including cell bank vial thaws, seed train scale-up, and bioreactor operations

  • Perform cell culture analytical methods and apply platform processes with moderate modification to optimize productivity and product quality

  • Analyze experimental data using standard statistical methods, including Design of Experiments (DoE)

  • Support downstream purification activities, including chromatography (AKTA), filtration, and tangential flow filtration

  • Maintain accurate documentation and batch production records (BPRs) in accordance with SOPs and GDP requirements

  • Collaborate cross-functionally and communicate results with internal teams and external clients to meet project timelines

  • Support lab operations, including equipment maintenance, cleaning, material stocking, and 5S organization

  • Contribute to process development, optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives across client and internal programs

The candidate:

  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 1-3 years of related experience

  • Equivalent technical competency may also be demonstrated through completion of a bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline with relevant laboratory, research, or co-op experience

  • Ability to execute laboratory procedures and experiments of moderate complexity with minimal guidance

  • Hands-on experience or exposure to cell culture, bioreactors, or downstream purification (chromatography, TFF, AKTA)

  • Experience with data analysis and statistical methods (e.g., DoE) and ability to interpret results

  • Experience working within GMP/regulatory environments, including SOPs, GDP, and batch record (BPR) documentation

  • Ability to identify out-of-spec data, troubleshoot issues, and support investigations

  • Strong organization, communication, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

  • Experience supporting lab operations (equipment maintenance, cleaning, stocking, 5S) and working cross-functionally

Why you should join Catalent:

  • Competitive medical benefits and 401K

  • 152 hours PTO + 8 Paid Holidays

  • Dynamic, fast-paced work environment

  • Opportunity to work on Continuous Improvement Processes

Catalent offers rewarding opportunities to further your career! Join the global drug development and delivery leader and help us bring over 7,000 life-saving and life-enhancing products to patients around the world. Catalent is an exciting and growing international company where employees work directly with pharma, biopharma and consumer health companies of all sizes to advance new medicines from early development to clinical trials and to the market. Catalent produces more than 70 billion doses per year, and each one will be used by someone who is counting on us. Join us in making a difference.

personal initiative. dynamic pace. meaningful work.

Visit Catalent Careers to explore career opportunities.

Catalent is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and veterans.

If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you may submit your request by sending an email, and confirming your request for an accommodation and include the job number, title and location to DisabilityAccommodations@catalent.com. This option is reserved for individuals who require accommodation due to a disability. Information received will be processed by a U.S. Catalent employee and then routed to a local recruiter who will provide assistance to ensure appropriate consideration in the application or hiring process.

Notice to Agency and Search Firm Representatives: Catalent Pharma Solutions (Catalent) is not accepting unsolicited resumes from agencies and/or search firms for this job posting. Resumes submitted to any Catalent employee by a third party agency and/or search firm without a valid written & signed search agreement, will become the sole property of Catalent. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired for this position as a result of an unsolicited agency or search firm referral. Thank you.

Important Security Notice to U.S. Job Seekers:

Catalent NEVER asks candidates to provide any type of payment, bank details, photocopies of identification, social security number or other highly sensitive personal information during the offer process, and we NEVER do so via email or social media. If you receive any such request, DO NOT respond- it is a fraudulent request. Please forward such requests to spam@catalent.com for us to investigate with local authorities.

California Job Seekers can find our California Job Applicant Notice HERE.


What Catalent employees say

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About Catalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Catalent is an exciting and growing international company where employees work directly with pharma, biopharma and consumer health companies of all sizes to advance new medicines from early development to clinical trials and to the market. Catalent produces more than 70 billion doses per year, and each one will be used by someone who is counting on us. Join us in making a difference.Catalent is committed to the health and safety of its employees, visitors and the customers and patients we serve.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Somerset, NJ, US

Year founded

2007

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