R&D Scientist

  • Merck KGaA
  • Madison, Wisconsin
  • Full Time

Work Your Magic with us! Start your next chapter and join MilliporeSigma.

Ready to explore, break barriers, and discover more? We know you've got big plans - so do we! Our colleagues across the globe love innovating with science and technology to enrich people's lives with our solutions in Healthcare, Life Science, and Electronics. Together, we dream big and are passionate about caring for our rich mix of people, customers, patients, and planet. That's why we are always looking for curious minds that see themselves imagining the unimaginable with us.

This role does not offer sponsorship for work authorization. External applicants must be eligible to work in the US.

For over 25 years, Mirus Bio pioneered the manufacture of transfection reagents and proprietary technologies for nucleic acid delivery applications. Our dynamic and forward-thinking approach has allowed us to stay agile and adapt to emerging trends. Our work is technical and cutting-edge, and we promote a culture that encourages creativity, initiative, responsibility, and respect. Mirus' current focus is on developing and commercializing novel research and GMP-grade products to enable researchers within the cell and gene therapy space.

OUR MISSION: Empower Discovery. Enable Innovation. Improve Life.

Your Role

Mirus Bio is expanding and has an immediate opening for a full-time R&D Scientist based in Madison, WI to help develop the next generation of transfection reagents, enhancers, and related products. This role will join the R&D Chemistry Team to perform hands-on polymer synthesis work for the next generation of transfection reagents, enhancers, and related products. This R&D Scientist position reports to the Director of Chemistry.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Independently design, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments that support the development and application of new and existing transfection technologies and products. Contribute and evaluate new products ideas/areas to determine technical feasibility and application.
  • Synthesize and characterize novel compounds by performing organic and polymer chemistry reactions, sample preparation and routine analytical testing. These reactions may be performed under inert conditions using a Schlenk line and reflux.
  • Skilled in performing and interpreting a variety of analytical techniques such as TLC, GPC, HPLC, NMR, FTIR, UV, DLS, MS, pH meter, etc. Knowledge and experience with purification and separation techniques such as extraction, distillation, precipitation, recrystallization, and chromatography of various compounds.
  • Maintain a detailed laboratory notebook and tracking of synthesized materials in a timely manner. Follow Good Documentation Practices.
  • Communicate effectively across multiple teams, such as Production, Quality, and Operations, to ensure alignment and eliminate barriers. Build positive relationships during internal and external interactions. Attend, present data, and participate in discussions at R&D group meetings. Participate in background presentations on a rotating basis.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by Director of Chemistry.

Who You Are

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Polymer Chemistry
  • Experience synthesizing and characterizing polymers for biomedical applications such as nucleic acid or drug delivery

Preferred Qualifications:

  • At least 2 years designing, synthesizing, and characterizing polymers for the purpose of delivering nucleic acids to cells
  • Experience developing, performing, maintaining, and documenting various synthetic and analytical techniques in an industrial setting under GxP guidelines and regulations
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary & team-oriented environment
  • Ability to work in an organized manner, manage multiple priorities, make critical observations, and maintain records of the results
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office including Excel, Word and PowerPoint

Travel Requirements:

  • Ability to travel independently up to 5%, including overnight travel

Location Requirements:

  • This is an onsite role based in our Madison, WI facility.

What we offer: We are curious minds that come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe that this variety drives excellence and innovation, strengthening our ability to lead in science and technology. We are committed to creating access and opportunities for all to develop and grow at your own pace. Join us in building a culture of inclusion and belonging that impacts millions and empowers everyone to work their magic and champion human progress!

Apply now and become a part of a team that is dedicated to Sparking Discovery and Elevating Humanity!

Job ID: 485670806
Originally Posted on: 7/17/2025

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