R&D Research - Associate Scientist

Job Description

Job Description

Medgene Labs helps veterinarians and producers protect livestock with precisely constructed immunological products and services. Applying a strategy of continual diagnostic surveillance and data analytics to the practice of immunology, creating vaccines for the disease at hand quicker and more precisely than previously possible. Medgene Labs has a single mission: To be a world-class Immunological Services Provider™ for leading livestock producers and their veterinarians.

If you're looking to join a collaborative, mission-driven team that's making a real difference in animal health and beyond, we'd love to hear from you!

COMPANY DESCRIPTION VST, LLC dba Medgene is a technology and manufacturing company based in Brookings, South Dakota that is inspiring the world to prevent emerging and zoonotic diseases for a better life. This involves helping veterinarians and animal owners improve animal welfare with immunological products and services. Applying a strategy of continuous diagnostic surveillance and bioinformatics to the practice of immunology, Medgene creates vaccines for emerging diseases faster and more precisely. Medgene's mission is to serve as a world-class Immunological Services Provider™ to animal care providers.

POSITION SUMMARY:

A Research & Development Research Scientist (level depending on experience) will be responsible for performing experiments and tasks in support of R&D projects involving vaccine research for various diseases in multiple species to address customers' needs. In particular, the scientist will be responsible for conducting, modifying and developing immunological assays, as well as support of other teams within R&D and throughout the company. The position requires the ability to perform detail-oriented work and successfully integrate within a strong R&D team. The scientist will report to the R&D Manager and will not have direct reports.

JOB DUTIES

• Perform in both an individual and team setting
• Process clinical samples according to protocol with a high level of detail/accuracy
• Perform laboratory experiments according to a written method (with supervision level commiserate to experience)
• Designs and executes experiments (with supervision level commiserate to experience)
• Perform data analysis, troubleshooting, data presentation and discussion
• Perform basic microscopy
• Ability to learn and utilize software for set tasks including but not limited to Smartsheet, Compass, SoftMax, Gen5
• Treat experiments and data with high level of integrity and ethics
• Able to follow detailed instructions, scientific protocols, and Standard Operating Procedures
• Strong understanding and application of aseptic technique, biosafety level requirements, and strong adherence to biosecurity practices
• Keep laboratory documents and logs as needed following ALCOA+ principles
• Maintain quality control checks and a safe environment in compliance will all governmental and laboratory policies, rules, regulations, and codes
• Trains other scientists as appropriate for their knowledge and skill level
• Performs routine laboratory maintenance and upkeep, including cleaning glassware, autoclaving, waste disposal, and equipment maintenance/monitoring as necessary
• Performs literature searches to bring in new techniques or improve current assays
• Coordinates with various teams within R&D as well as teams external to R&D
• Perform other duties as needed

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in microbiology, virology, molecular biology or related field. 
• Must be legally authorized to be employed in the United States. Medgene Labs does not anticipate providing sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B, or TN status) for this position.
• Knowledge of:
• General laboratory principles and equipment
• Biosafety (BSL1 / BSL2) and biosecurity practices
• Immunological methods and techniques involving both live and inactivated cultures
• Cell culture methods including cryopreservation.
• Viral propagation techniques and identification
• Bacterial propagation techniques and identification
• Microsoft Word and Excel computer skills
• Ability to:
• Perform various cell culture growth methods, tests, and analyses.
• Follow detailed directions and instructions.
• Work safely with dangerous and contagious materials and specimens.
• Operate general lab equipment and computers.
• Perform mathematical computations.
• Interpret subject matter.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Perform various tests and adapt techniques as required.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory notebook records.
• Communicate information clearly and concisely.

Medgene Labs is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.