Job Description

Job Summary

Reporting to the Vice President of Biomanufacturing Development for the ETSU Research Corporation, the Research and Development Scientist serves as an individual contributor in a hands-on technical role spanning synthetic biology, industrial biomanufacturing, process scale-up and scale-down, and bioprocess development. The position assists with experimental design; performs laboratory procedures; compiles, analyzes, and interprets data; and supports the successful completion of experiments conducted by the ETSU Research Corporation at the Valleybrook campus. The R&D Scientist also operates current and future laboratory and bioprocessing equipment in support of projects conducted both on-site and at off-site locations.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities


• Knowledge of microbiological principles, methods, and techniques, including reliable aseptic practices.
• Proficiency in microbial cell culture and fermentation using shake flasks, fermenters, bioreactors, and/or chemostats.
• Working knowledge of basic downstream processing technologies.
• Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), including laboratory safety, personal protective equipment (PPE), documentation, traceability, validation, and standardized workflows.
• Working knowledge of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), equipment automation, and process control systems.
• Understanding of sensor calibration, scaling, ranging, and signal interpretation.
• Ability to read and interpret process and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Ability to troubleshoot pumps, valves, sensors, electrical signals, equipment, processes, and microbial growth performance.
• Ability to design and execute scientifically sound experiments, analyze results, and adjust approaches based on findings.
• Proficiency in using basic hand tools, including screwdrivers, adjustable and Allen wrenches, socket wrenches, and utility knives.
• Proficiency with common computer applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to communicate complex or abstract scientific and technical concepts clearly to a variety of audiences.
• Strong interpersonal and collaborative communication skills.
• Ability to exercise initiative, sound judgment, and critical thinking when translating broad strategies and guidance into specific actions and tasks.
• Willingness to ask questions, respectfully challenge assumptions, and contribute constructively to technical discussions.
• Ability to demonstrate accountability, self-awareness, and openness when identifying, discussing, and correcting errors.
• Adaptability and resilience when responding to experimental setbacks, changing priorities, and unexpected results.
• Ability to work established schedules consistently and occasional nonstandard hours when required to support time-sensitive experiments or processes.

Required Qualifications:


• Bachelor’s degree in biology, life sciences, or a related field, plus at least one year of hands-on experience operating benchtop bioreactors and downstream processing equipment and designing and conducting microbial trials.
OR
• A combination of education and work experience.
• US Citizenship is required for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:


• Multivariable experimental design, i.e., Design of Experiments (DoE)
• Master’s degree in biology, life science, or a related field
• At least one (1) year of hands-on operation of biometric shake flasks

Compensation & Benefits:


• Job Family – Researcher 3
• Market Range - 7 Salary Schedules
• For information on benefits, please visit Employee Benefits


Application Instructions and additional details


• Exempt positions are only required to be posted for a minimum of fourteen (14) calendar days. The closing date for this posting is subject to change without notice to applicants.
• Employment is contingent on a satisfactory background check
• Applications must include a cover letter, resume, and three (3) professional references