Scientist II, Research & Development

The Opportunity

QuidelOrtho unites the strengths of Quidel Corporation and Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, creating a world-leading in vitro diagnostics company with award-winning expertise in immunoassay and molecular testing, clinical chemistry and transfusion medicine. We are more than 6,000 strong and do business in over 130 countries, providing answers with fast, accurate and consistent testing where and when they are needed most – home to hospital, lab to clinic.

Our culture puts our team members first and prioritizes actions that support happiness, inspiration and engagement. We strive to build meaningful connections with each other as we believe that employee happiness and business success are linked. Join us in our mission to transform the power of diagnostics into a healthier future for all.

The Role

As we continue to grow as QuidelOrtho, we are seeking Materials Scientist to support identification, and characterization of antibodies, antigens, and other biomaterials used to develop existing, as well as new diagnostic assays.

The Scientist II, as a member of a cross functional team, possesses specialized knowledge, with sufficient experience and skill in techniques to independently determine how to set up and execute complex analysis.  The individual will function as a key liaison between the technical project lead and laboratory work.  The candidate requires understanding or application of a theoretical or scientific discipline; including the underlining principles involved as opposed to practices.  A successful scientist II applies standard practices and techniques in specific situations, adjusts and correlates data and follows operations through a series of detailed steps and processes.  Have strong protein chemistry skills and can comfortably understand supporting analytical instrumentation and equipment.

This role will be an onsite role at our Rochester, New York location.

The Position

• Performs and/or designs experimental laboratory tests, to identify materials that support development of new in vitro diagnostic products and processes. Knowledge of protein chemistry is desirable.  Skills might include, ELISA, materials characterization (such as SDS-PAGE, IEF, SEC, Western Blots), and analytical instrumentation (such as HPLC, FTIR, DSF, label free binding or Mass Spec).
• Utilizes statistical methods to analyze experimental data.  Interprets data and draws conclusions. Readily discriminates between normal and abnormal variation. Presents data to functional project team.  Applies expertise in chemical kinetics, equilibria, enzymology and immunochemistry to assist in the design of materials for use in in vitro diagnostic assays
• Maintains accurate records of work performed in accordance with Current Good Laboratory Process (cGLP) practices, established quality protocols and other standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Maintains analyzer equipment related to testing, and performs necessary calibration, QC and documentation per SOPs.
• Communication with outside vendors (commercial antibody/ antigen search) and internal business partners
• Maintains a safe working environment through the proactive identification of hazards and risks.
• Works cooperatively with others to help a team or work group achieve its goals.
• Perform other work-related duties as assigned.

The Individual

Required:

• A MS degree or Ph.D. degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Medical Technology or related sciences field.  Will consider B.S. degree with appropriate experience.
• Minimum of 3 years research experience at either the University, or relevant industry is desirable.
• Experience in experimental design and analytical analysis, including data evaluation and interpretation. Strong knowledge in analytical tools and laboratory equipment used for characterizing biomaterials.
• Superior communication skills, as well as being comfortable presenting data in front of others
• Basic computer skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), along with excellent written and verbal communication skills.  Experience with Minitab or other statistical software is preferred.
• Ability to utilize good judgment working independently and within a team setting.
• Ability to carry out general biochemical laboratory procedures including handling of human blood/serum samples and reagents for testing purposes.
• The position does not directly manage people; however, the individual may provide oversight and supervision to a functional team.
• Knowledge of safe chemical and biological handling.
• Being a strong team player with a self-motivated and proactive attitude is highly desired
• <10% travel
• This position is not currently eligible for visa sponsorship. 

Preferred:

• Medical device or pharmaceutical background.

The Key Stakeholders

Internal Partners:

• Works within the R&D project team and has daily interaction for planning and execution of team activities. Cross functional collaboration with many departments and project team members.  Meets with cross functional team members to meet goals

External Partners:

• Interacts with outside vendors for arrangement of service or calibration of test equipment or procurement of raw materials or test specimens.

The Work Environment

The work environment characteristics are representative of a manufacturing, laboratory, or warehouse environment and include handling of viral and bacterial hazards, potentially hazardous chemicals, as well as infectious or potentially infectious bodily fluids, tissues, and samples. Up to 75% of the time at desk, standing or sitting extended periods of time. Flexible work hours to meet project deadlines.

Physical Demands

This position requires the ability to work in a biohazard lab environment and requires use of protective equipment (safety glasses, gloves, lab coats). The position requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, squat, push and pull, repetitive movement (pipetting of samples). Working in the lab, standing or sitting extended periods of time.

Salary Transparency

The salary range for this position takes into account a wide range of factors including education, experience, knowledge, skills, geography, and abilities of the candidate, in addition to internal equity and alignment with market data. At QuidelOrtho, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. The salary range for this position is $75,000-$85,000 [and is bonus eligible or eligible for incentive compensation.] QuidelOrtho offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with a 401(k) plan, employee assistance program, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, paid time off (including sick time), and paid Holidays. All benefits are non-contractual, and QuidelOrtho may amend, terminate, or enhance the benefits provided, as it deems appropriate.

Equal Opportunity

QuidelOrtho believes in Equal Opportunity for all and is committed to ensuring all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, have an opportunity to apply for those positions that they are interested in and qualify for without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. QuidelOrtho is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals so that an individual can perform the duties. If you are interested in applying for an employment opportunity and require special assistance or an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please contact us at [email protected].