Freelance Assay Development Scientist Jobs in Raleigh, NC

This role focuses on supporting process development teams through advanced analytical testing and assay development in a fast-paced laboratory environment. The scientist performs complex analytical methods, generates and interprets data, troubleshoots issues, and ensures that results reliably support product development and GMP manufacturing decisions for vaccine and therapeutic products.

• Perform analytical assay development and characterization work to support vaccine and therapeutic product programs.
• Support process development efforts by designing, executing, and refining analytical testing strategies.
• Develop, optimize, and qualify analytical testing methods to ensure robust, reproducible data.
• Run complex liquid chromatography and related analytical techniques, including HPLC, UPLC, reverse phase chromatography, size exclusion chromatography (SEC), lipid content analysis, and mass spectrometry (MS) where applicable.
• Support formulation development and characterization activities by providing analytical data and method expertise.
• Conduct GMP testing and lot release testing in accordance with established quality and regulatory standards.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and troubleshoot analytical issues to resolve problems and improve methods.
• Prepare and maintain clear, accurate technical reports, protocols, and GMP documentation.
• Present analytical findings and recommendations to cross-functional teams in a clear and concise manner.
• Collaborate closely with Process Development, Quality, Manufacturing, and Operations teams to align analytical strategies with development and production needs.
• Work independently in the laboratory while managing a high volume of testing and supporting multiple internal functions simultaneously.
• Ensure all laboratory activities adhere to applicable procedures, quality standards, and regulatory expectations.

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline such as Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 6 years of experience as an Analytical Development Scientist.
• At least 6 years of experience developing and executing liquid chromatography methods, including reverse phase chromatography, size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and lipid content analysis.
• Demonstrated proficiency in analytical method development, optimization, and qualification.
• Strong analytical problem-solving abilities and experience troubleshooting complex assays.
• Proven ability to work independently in a laboratory setting while managing a high testing volume.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Experience supporting process development activities through analytical testing in a biopharmaceutical or related environment.

• GMP experience, including GMP testing and lot release testing.
• Hands-on experience with mass spectrometry (MS) techniques.
• Formulation development and characterization experience.
• Prior experience in biologics, vaccines, cell therapy, gene therapy, or pharmaceutical product development.
• Background in analytical development within a biopharmaceutical, vaccine, or advanced therapeutics environment.
• Experience supporting process development in a regulated setting.
• Knowledge of federal compliance and sponsored project management gained through exposure to complex research programs.
• Interest in mission-driven science focused on next-generation vaccines and emerging cancer vaccine platforms.
• Motivation to grow through structured training, certifications, and professional development opportunities.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, high-performing culture that values communication and shared problem-solving.

The position is based in a fast-paced GMP testing laboratory operating Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The environment centers on high-complexity analytical work supporting vaccine and therapeutic product development, with extensive use of HPLC, UPLC, reverse phase and size exclusion chromatography, lipid analysis, and mass spectrometry. Team members collaborate closely with scientists, faculty, and administrators across Process Development, Quality, Manufacturing, and Operations. The broader research setting offers access to large-scale, federally funded programs, multi-institutional collaborations, and sophisticated research administration systems. The culture emphasizes mission-driven science with global impact, combining the stability and infrastructure of a major research institution with the agility of an innovative, vaccine-focused center, and provides opportunities for ongoing learning, professional development, and participation in shaping future cancer vaccine initiatives.

This is a Contract position based out of Durham, NC.

The pay range for this position is $38.33 - $47.91/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Durham,NC.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 16, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.