Research Associate Assay Development Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

POSITION SUMMARY 

This position is responsible for executing experiments and analyzing the resulting data in support of reagent and assay development projects with limited supervision. This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development objectives focused on leading-edge biomarker measurements and technology.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Designs and executes experiments and implements plans with limited guidance utilizing established protocols.
• Performs troubleshooting on experiments; reports any issues and proposes possible solutions to manager.
• Performs data analysis using spreadsheets and graphing software.  Prepares experimental reports and/or presentations.  Presents findings to peer and supervisor review groups.
• Participates in general lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining laboratory supplies and equipment, maintaining electronic inventory list database, physical inventory, processing/aliquotting/vialing/labeling materials, and preparing and maintaining reagent inventories.
• May be selected to monitor and report on the infrastructure of a particular lab or functional area.
• Specific duties may vary depending upon departmental requirements.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, or related area is required.
• Master’s degree is preferred.
• Two years hands-on laboratory work experience or one year hands on experience with the MSD platform is required. Industry experience is a plus.
• Experience with running antibody-based assays, developing reagents and product development is desired.
• Training in and experience with Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) techniques is highly preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• Strong knowledge of scientific fundamentals with an analytical background.

·      Knowledge of immunoassay technology.

• Demonstrated aptitude for learning of and adhering to standard laboratory techniques and safety precautions.
• Solid communication (written and verbal) skills regardless of the format (e.g., documents, public speaking situations, presentations, etc.).

·     Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple and often changing priorities and issues of varying complexity, while meeting time-sensitive deadlines and deliverables.

·     Attention to detail with demonstrated commitment to excellence and performance.

·     Demonstrated propensity to be creative, collaborative, proactive, and self-motivated in the execution and completion of assigned tasks. 

·     Ability to work both independently and as an effective team member.

·     Ability to execute complex experiments with limited guidance.

·     Ability to identify issues and troubleshoot solutions. 

·     Solid data analysis skills. Sound knowledge of MS Excel. Knowledge of GraphPad Prism and SharePoint a plus. Basic knowledge of statistics.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

·         While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms.

·         Up to 75% of the day may be spent at a lab bench.

·         There are aspects of the position’s duties that require a person in this role to work at heights above four (4) feet on occasion and move/lift up to 25 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

• Laboratory environment working with chemical reagents and performing some Biosafety Level 2 work.
• May involve handling of BSL-2 materials and organisms including human blood and/or blood products 

COMPENSATION SUMMARY 

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $67,900. to $101,000. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.

BENEFITS SUMMARY

At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.

EEO/AA STATEMENT

MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here.  

Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.