Scientist III

This role sits within the Biologics CMC Developability team, a key part of the Biologics CMC Drug Product Development organization. The Scientist III will identify biophysical and chemical liabilities in discovery-stage biologic drug candidates to guide lead selection and will characterize critical CMC attributes that support successful biologic drug development. The position offers an opportunity to contribute directly to the development of therapeutic biologics through advanced analytical characterization and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Perform in-depth liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS)–based characterization of therapeutic biologic molecules and their post-translational modifications.
• Conduct liquid chromatography–based characterization of biologic drug candidates using size-exclusion chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, and reverse-phase chromatography.
• Execute experimental protocols independently, including sample preparation, instrument operation, data acquisition, and troubleshooting.
• Collect, process, and interpret experimental data carefully and accurately, ensuring scientific rigor and reproducibility.
• Maintain thorough and accurate documentation of all work in electronic lab notebooks and formal protocols, in accordance with internal standards.
• Prepare clear, concise scientific reports and presentations to communicate experimental design, results, and conclusions to project teams and stakeholders.
• Oversee maintenance and routine calibration of key laboratory equipment, ensuring instruments remain in good working order and compliant with internal guidelines.
• Support and help coordinate routine laboratory operations, including reagent management, instrument scheduling, and workflow optimization.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues within the Biologics CMC Developability team and across functional groups to advance biologic drug candidates.
• Build strong working relationships and contribute to a collaborative, solution-oriented team culture.
• Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, laboratory safety, and documentation compliance at all times.

• Biologics characterization experience using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS), including subunit analysis, peptide mapping, and disulfide mapping.
• Hands-on experience with protein mass spectrometry and associated data processing workflows.
• Proficiency with liquid chromatography methods commonly used for biologic protein characterization, including size-exclusion, ion-exchange, and reverse-phase chromatography.
• Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, or an equivalent field such as Chemical Engineering or Pharmaceutical Sciences, with 5+ years of biopharmaceutical industry experience for BS or 2+ years for MS; or a Ph.D. in a relevant field with 0+ years of biopharmaceutical industry experience.
• Ability to plan, execute, and complete experiments independently with high quality and timely deliverables.
• Proficiency in data analysis using tools such as Microsoft Excel and GraphPad.
• Demonstrated track record of independent thinking, creativity, and scientific accomplishment.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• High level of responsibility, self-motivation, and attention to detail in both laboratory work and documentation.

• Experience with liquid handling robots and their programming, particularly for analytical or sample preparation workflows.
• Familiarity with Waters Empower chromatography data software.
• Experience with Protein Metrics software for advanced mass spectrometry data processing.
• Experience in a biopharmaceutical industry environment, particularly within CMC or drug product development functions.
• Ability to deliver concise and impactful scientific presentations to technical and cross-functional audiences.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple experiments, projects, and priorities in parallel.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, performance-driven setting where scientific rigor and timelines are both critical.

This position is based onsite in Worcester, MA, and requires 100% on-site presence in the laboratory and office facilities. The role is structured as a 1-year contract, with continuation dependent on performance and business needs. The work environment is a modern biopharmaceutical laboratory focused on biologics CMC and drug product development, equipped with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry systems, liquid chromatography instruments (including size-exclusion, ion-exchange, and reverse-phase setups), and supporting analytical equipment. The scientist will work hands-on at the bench for a significant portion of the time, operating instruments, handling biologic samples, and performing detailed analytical experiments. Standard laboratory safety practices and attire apply, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment in lab areas. The culture emphasizes scientific excellence, compliance with safety and documentation standards, and strong cross-functional collaboration. Relocation is possible at the candidate’s own expense.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Worcester, MA.

The pay range for this position is $67.00 - $70.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Worcester,MA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 4, 2026.

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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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

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Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.