Lead Research Scientist Drug Discovery

Job Description

Join our Discovery In Vitro Screening Team where you will be immersed in both chemistry lab work and biological theory. In this dynamic role, you will work primarily with test tubes to produce data and identify trends against biological samples. You will handle both animal and human biological samples such as plasma, blood, urine, and feces. As a Lead Research Scientist, you will be cross-trained in both biology and chemistry, allowing you to start with your area of expertise, whether it's biology/cell culture or chemistry/wet chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Conduct sample processing using basic wet chemistry techniques such as pipetting, plate reader, liquid handlers, and centrifuge.
• Perform stability assays, protein binding assays, and enzyme inhibition assays.
• Operate Mass Spec and LC-MS , conducting extractions and managing your own samples.
• Engage in mammalian cell culture, maintaining and growing cell lines for assay preparation.
• Conduct cell counting, sterile technique, seeding cells onto assay plates, and harvesting plates.
• Handle animal study simulations using test tubes, managing studies from start to finish using cell lines, blood, or plasma.
• Analyze data and conduct test assays on a daily basis in a fast-paced and high-stress environment.
• Develop assays and run research projects, eventually becoming the main contact for clients.
• Problem-solve by understanding the project's big picture and selecting appropriate tools.

• Proficient in aseptic and sterile techniques.
• Experience in chemistry and wet chemistry processes.
• Knowledge of liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and liquid handling.
• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Drug Discovery, or related Life Science field.
• Experience in LC-MS, pipetting, and handling biological samples.
• Background in biology, cell culture, and cell biology processes.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Drug Discovery or related Life Science field with 0-3 years of experience.
• Experience in drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics.
• Coachable, open-minded, and motivated to learn new things.
• Hands-on experience with Hamilton robotics, UV vis Plate reader, cell counters, and pipetting.
• Biology lab experience including mammalian cell culture, cloning, plasmid transfections, and qPCR techniques.

You will work in a busy lab environment within the Discovery In-vitro team, focusing on screening. The role involves high-volume and quick turnaround tasks, offering a great opportunity to gain comprehensive experience in drug development processes. The environment is fast-paced, requiring adaptability and problem-solving skills.

The pay range for this position is $40.87 - $43.27/hr.

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Madison,WI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 9, 2025.

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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

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