Senior Research Assistant

Gaithersburg, Maryland
Gaithersburg, MD 20877, USA

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for supporting research and product development efforts by executing experiments, testing new products and maintaining laboratory equipment. Specific tasks include performing scheduled equipment maintenance and instrument qualification activities in addition to performing laboratory-based experiments to support and accelerate feasibility, development and qualification testing of new products. This position requires weekend work (Saturday or Sunday).

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Executes the following types of experiments independently using established protocols:
• Immunoassay kit component testing using plate-based assays.
• Qualification testing of new immunoassays.
• Sample processing and sample testing using established and newly developed assays.
• Testing to optimize product performance using complicated layouts and procedures.
• Pilot scale preparation and testing of components for immunoassay kits.
• Trains new employees on assay procedures, analysis software, and equipment maintenance.
• Performs general daily, weekly, monthly, and annual maintenance of laboratory equipment to ensure compliance with company policies and safety requirements. Restocks supplies and disposes of waste as necessary.
• Performs qualification testing of laboratory equipment and troubleshoots malfunctioning equipment, by performing minor repairs and part replacements, and schedules major repairs.
• Complies with company safety regulations, personal protective equipment requirements, standard operating procedures, work instructions and good laboratory practices.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate's degree in scientific field or equivalent relevant work experience.
• Two years' experience working in a laboratory setting, preferably with immunoassays.
• Experience with Biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) is required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of general laboratory terminology, proper laboratory equipment handling practice, and safe work practices.
• Familiarity with MS Office, particularly MS Excel.
• High level of attention to detail; highly motivated and organized.
• Ability to trouble-shoot and communicate issues/problems that might affect the quality, accuracy and reliability of laboratory instrumentation.
• Good oral, written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to execute experiments following protocols and/or SOPs.
• Ability to move/lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work weekends.

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.
• There are aspects of this position may require an individual to work at heights above four (4) feet and move/lift up to 25 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Standard biology laboratory environment with chemical and biological reagents up to BSL-2.

COMPENSATION SUMMARY

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $44,300. to $64,300. 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.