ATCC is seeking a Senior Scientist for a direct hire career opportunity based in Gaithersburg, MD.  The Senior Scientist will join the Microphysiological Systems (MPS) program aiming to combine state-of-the-art technology and human biology to push scientific boundaries and enable a new era for 21st-century science for human health.

The Senior Scientist is responsible for supporting the MPS activities by developing and implementing iPS cell strategies. The Senior Scientist will establish and develop products for life science research in academia, government, biotech, pharmaceutical institutions, and others. The Senior Scientist initiates, executes, and directs all scientific research and troubleshoots research activities identifying and resolving complex problems in which they apply an understanding of scientific principles and proficiency in research methods.

The Senior Scientist collects research and evidence to make hypotheses, runs tests, and gains and shares understanding and knowledge. They will work with interdepartmental cross-functional teams as needed on new product development, services, or informatics projects. The Senior Scientist is a resource to lower-level staff. They provide training and mentorship to biologists and peers for technologies and collaborative projects. They use professional concepts and organizational objectives to solve complex problems independently in creative and effective ways.

1. Design and conduct experimental research and investigations to explore the function, formation, and structure to support scientific discovery and development.
2. Initiate, direct, and execute all scientific research and/or development strategies in research and/or development.
3. Investigate the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and concepts to potential inventions, products, and problems.
4. Plan, execute, and oversee laboratory research. Determine the methods and procedures for new assignments. Troubleshoot technical problems, data analysis and test methods, and document corrective action.
5. Record or review, analyze and interpret complex study data.
6. Develop and review research documentation, such as protocols, reports, presentations, publications, manuscripts, and/or summaries. Disseminate research findings to internal and external audiences. Translate validated research data and processes into publications or patent applications.
7. Translate or supervise the translation of validated experimental protocols and processes into quality-managed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
8. Provide scientific expertise for the development or review of external grant and contract proposals or for internal research and development projects.
9. Support technology transfer of methods, processes, and products across business units.
10. Ensure the quality standards and scientific integrity in research activities are maintained. Remain knowledgeable of current and relevant scientific and technological developments.

Required Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Stem Cell Biology, or related field and 5 or more years’ experience or equivalent experience.

Preferred Education and Experience: 

• The successful candidate should hold a Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Stem Cell Biology, Pharmacology, or Biomedical Engineering (or equivalent) with 5+ years of experience working both independently and collaboratively in a laboratory environment.

• Strong technical expertise in cell reprogramming and implementing methods for the production of and/or differentiation of iPS cells in various tissues such as neural and cardiac.

• Experience developing and implementing analytic methods to characterize the quality and suitability of iPS-derived cells

• Experience in 3D cell culture, organoids, or spheroids is desired

• Demonstrated and proficient skills in mammalian cell culture and associated techniques

• Knowledge of Microphysiological System (MPS), or Organ-on-Chip (OoC) technologies is a bonus

• Expertise in cellular and molecular biology techniques including flow cytometry and RT-PCR

• Experience in biochemical assays including ELISA, MSD, colorimetric, fluorometric, and luminescent assays

• Ability to perform immunofluorescence staining, microscopy (phase contrast, fluorescent, live, and confocal imaging), and associated image analysis in collaboration with other team members

   

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Develop, write, and review laboratory methods and protocols
• Evaluate new technologies for future process development
• Proactive problem-solving, multi-tasking, and organizational skills
• Coordinating efforts in a highly collaborative, fast-paced team environment
• Self-motivated and able to work in a diverse cross-functional team
• Interpersonal skills and strong communication required
• Independently and/or collaboratively design, troubleshoot, and implement state-of-the-art approaches to establish tissue culture in microphysiological platforms
• High sense of responsibility, accountability, and professional integrity

Founded in 1925, ATCC is a non-profit organization with a mission to acquire, authenticate, preserve, develop, standardize, and distribute biological materials and information for the advancement and application of scientific knowledge.

ATCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.