Research Scientist

Job Description

JOB OBJECTIVE : The Research Scientist position requires a highly self-motivated material chemist with enthusiasm to invent new functional materials for a variety of bio-applications. This scientist not only has a desire to create new intellectual property, but also an astute ability to convert concepts to new product realization. This scientist is capable of nurturing a collaborative environment through independent thought, empathy of listening to diverse perspectives, and the drive to demonstrate the proof of concept within a team context.

This position is part of a large team of chemists focused on inventing new molecules and materials as part of the Chemistry Discovery Group at Promega's San Luis Obispo office.

Estimated starting salary range is $113,709 - $122,029 / yr.

The full salary range for this position is $110,936 - $166,404 / yr.

The overall salary range for this role provides for growth beyond this initial hiring range. Base pay offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographic location. Salary is just one component of Promega's total reward package for employees. Promega is committed to providing a variety of benefits that support our employees.

CORE DUTIES :

1. Designs and synthesizes a variety of bio-compatible materials (e.g. polymers, micro- and nanoparticles, synthetic matrixes, surface chemistries, etc.) while collaborating with analysts to characterize those molecules or materials.

2. Integrates with biologists to evaluate their function performances for bio-applications (e.g. biological sample preparation, biosensing, etc.) and provide proof of concept potential for new product.

3. Further explores the chemical structures of molecules or compositions of materials correlative to biological activities to achieve desired performance, solubility, stability and chemical safety.

4. Works closely with a cross-functional team across Promega's San Luis Obispo office, and further integrates with biology team from Promega Madison to design and deliver key deliverables for new product realization.

5. Applies knowledge and experience to solve complex scientific problems working within an internal team of chemists and biologists.

6. Presents scientific results and other reports to small or large groups within the company.

7. Interacts with highly valued internal and external customers with professionalism.

8. Maintains high level of knowledge related to current developments in materials chemistry (e.g. polymer, micro- and nanoparticles, matrix, surface chemistry, etc), chemical biology and life science tool development.

9. Support and participate in other projects within the Discovery team as needed.

10. Understands and complies with all elements of the PBI quality system appropriate for this position.

11. Understands and complies with safety requirements of the laboratory environment, including the use of PPE, safe chemical handling, and waste disposal. Monitor and report on safety practices of assigned area.

12. Integrates seamlessly into our collaborative, fast-paced, team environment.

13. Actively engage in fostering good communication and teamwork within and across all departments and collaborate outside of PBI as appropriate.

14. Demonstrates inclusion through their own words and actions and is accountable for a safe workspace. Acts with kindness, curiosity, and respect for others.

15. Embraces and is open to incorporating Promega's 6 Emotional & Social Intelligence (ESI) core principles in daily work.

16. Understands and complies with ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements applicable to our business.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS :

1. PhD. in Chemistry or Material Science with 0-2 years of experience with multi-step synthesis, purification and characterization, or polymer / particle synthesis and characterization.

2. Ability to demonstrate independent thought and problem solving with strong knowledge of scientific principles and concepts.

3. Ability to drive projects independently and integrate with biologists in an analytical lab environment.

4. Ability to thrive in and contribute to a collaborative team environment.

5. Ability to maintain accurate research documentation and to present research activities in a scientific manner to the group, to the management team, and to external customers.

6. Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

7. Ability to write manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.

8. Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology, including Microsoft applications and mobile platforms, with the ability to adapt and leverage emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve efficiency, automation, and collaboration

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :

1. Knowledge of and experience with material-biomolecule interactions (e.g., with nucleic acids, proteins, or cells).

2. Knowledge of and experience with biological sample preparation workflows (e.g. nucleic acid purification, protein purification, cell analysis, PCR, etc)

3. Knowledge of and experience with modern synthetic approaches applied to materials chemistry, such as controlled polymerization, sol-gel chemistry, or surface functionalization strategies.

4. Experience and interest in utilizing AI and machine learning to solve scientific problems.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS :

1. Ability to move about the building and labs including ascending stairs.

2. Ability to stand for long periods.

3. Good hearing, vision, and sense of smell is required for monitoring reactions.

4. Ability to identify and distinguish colors.

5. Requires corrected vision for near (within 20 cm) and far (greater than 3m) activities.

6. Ability to use a computer.

At Promega, we value diversity and strive to create an inclusive workplace. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.