Development Associate Jobs in Portage, MI (NOW HIRING)

R&D Associate - Med Tech

At Microbiologics, our impact goes far beyond the lab. As a global biotechnology company with a strong reputation for quality, collaboration, and scientific rigor, we support the health and safety of people around the world through trusted biological products and services.

We are seeking an R&D Associate - Med Tech to join our Kalamazoo team and support the development and evaluation of anti-infective products. This hands-on role combines clinical microbiology, research, molecular biology, and client-sponsored project work. The ideal candidate brings sound scientific judgment, strong laboratory skills, and a commitment to accurate, reliable results.

To Be Considered for This Position, Candidates Must Have the Following Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, virology, cell biology, molecular biology, food science, bioengineering, or a related field

Current MLS or MLT certification through ASCP or AMT

Minimum of two (2) years of laboratory experience working with bacteria and/or fungi in a diagnostic, clinical, manufacturing, food safety, or other commercial environment

Experience processing and testing clinical specimens

Strong knowledge of microbiological techniques, clinical microbiology methods, and automated laboratory equipment, assays, and platforms

Technical proficiency in molecular biology and chemistry techniques, including PCR, nucleic acid extraction, cloning, primer design, electrophoresis, and formulation preparation

Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; experience using LIMS or other laboratory software

Why This Role Is Different

At Microbiologics, this role extends beyond routine laboratory testing. You will contribute to meaningful anti-infective research, support clinical trial laboratory activities, and help clients turn complex scientific data into reliable answers. In this role, you will:

Lead and support research projects for internal and external clients

Design and execute specialized studies, including resistance development assessments, time-kill assays, and method evaluations

Serve as a technical resource for clinical microbiology and central laboratory activities

Work across microbiology, molecular biology, data analysis, quality systems, and client communication

Help introduce new methods, technologies, and laboratory processes

This position offers the opportunity to apply your Med Tech expertise to research that supports the development and evaluation of anti-infective products.

What You'll Do

Research & Project Leadership

Lead and manage anti-infective research projects, ensuring milestones and deliverables are met

Design, conduct, evaluate, and document specialized microbiology studies and method validations

Provide scientific expertise, technical recommendations, and data-driven solutions to support research objectives

Clinical Laboratory & Technical Operations

Perform antimicrobial and antifungal susceptibility testing in accordance with regulatory and industry standards

Serve as the site technical supervisor for clinical trial central laboratory activities and maintain required professional certification

Process clinical specimens and use LIMS and laboratory software to support research and clinical trial operations

Microbiology & Molecular Biology

Conduct microbial culture, identification, characterization, and enumeration using conventional and rapid methods

Perform molecular procedures such as PCR, nucleic acid extraction, cloning, electrophoresis, and related techniques

Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments while following SOPs, quality standards, and applicable regulations

Data, Quality & Collaboration

Analyze, interpret, and summarize scientific data for research projects, technical reports, presentations, and client deliverables

Maintain accurate laboratory records and support SOP development, document review, investigations, corrective actions, and continuous improvement

Communicate project status, technical findings, and laboratory results to internal stakeholders and clients

Support staff training, mentoring, project reviews, scientific discussions, and cross-functional priorities

Who Thrives Here

We believe strong science comes from curiosity, precision, and collaboration. This role is a strong fit for someone who:

Applies independent and critical thinking to complex scientific questions

Balances multiple projects and adjusts priorities without losing attention to detail

Communicates technical information clearly to colleagues, clients, and cross-functional partners

Demonstrates sound judgment, organization, time management, and project leadership

Values quality, accurate documentation, safety, and continuous improvement

Enjoys contributing in a collaborative, hands-on laboratory environment

Additional Requirements

Ability to regularly stand, walk, or sit for the duration of the shift and occasionally stoop, climb, or balance

Ability to occasionally lift and move up to 25 pounds above shoulder height without assistance

Ability to perform fine motor and repetitive movements required for sample handling and laboratory procedures

Close vision, depth perception, focus adjustment, normal color vision, and successful completion of color-vision screening

Ability to wear required personal protective equipment and follow all laboratory, biosafety, and waste-handling requirements

Comfort working with chemicals, biological materials, laboratory reagents, clinical specimens, and Risk Group I and Risk Group II microorganisms

Who We Are

Microbiologics is a global biotechnology company and trusted partner to healthcare and life science organizations worldwide. For more than 50 years, we have supported laboratories, manufacturers, and suppliers with high-quality biological control materials, assay services, and consulting.

Headquartered in St. Cloud, Minnesota, with additional facilities across the United States, we are known for our collaborative culture, commitment to quality, and continuous improvement mindset.

What We Offer

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

Medical and dental insurance

Company-funded Health Savings Account (HSA)

Life insurance and disability coverage

401(k) with company match

Tuition reimbursement and professional development

Bonus potential

A collaborative, team-oriented culture focused on growth