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Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD

(ID: 2026-3803)


Axle is a bioscience and information technology company that offers advancements in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications to research centers and healthcare organizations nationally and abroad. With experts in biomedical science, software engineering, and program management, we focus on developing and applying research tools and techniques to empower decision-making and accelerate research discoveries. We work with some of the top research organizations and facilities in the country including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).


Axle is seeking a Scientist to join our vibrant team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) located in Gaithersburg, MD.


Benefits We Offer:

  • 100% Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage for Employees
  • Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
  • 401K match up to 5%
  • Educational Benefits for Career Growth
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Flexible Spending Accounts:
    • Healthcare (FSA)
    • Parking Reimbursement Account (PRK)
    • Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP)
    • Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN)

 

Position Overview

 

The Scientist will support the planning and execution of research experiments within the laboratory’s overall research program. The role focuses on analytical method and assay development for monoclonal antibody (mAb), multispecific antibody, and messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine projects. The Scientist will lead assay development work across multiple project teams, evaluate new analytical technologies, and analyze and communicate research data. The role also includes coordinating with analysts and junior staff. A Master’s degree is required, along with 13 or more years of experience in a laboratory setting.

 

Certifications & Licenses

  • Master of Science (MS) degree in science

Field of Study

  • Biology

Software

  • PowerPoint, Outlook, Excel, Word

Skills

  • 13+ years of experience in a laboratory setting

Deliverables

  • Clean equipment (Ad-Hoc)

  • Meet with lab members to present updates (Ad-Hoc)

Statement of Work Details

  • Coordinate the deliverables of one or more analysts in support of project teams.

  • Participate in and coordinate experimental execution and study design, troubleshooting development issues and proposing solutions.

  • Lead and propose objectives rather than simply executing them.

  • Lead and represent the assay development group for multiple project teams, including the mRNA project.

  • Research, evaluate, and recommend new process residual analytical technologies to enhance the group’s capabilities.

  • Develop key process residual host cell protein (HCP) and host cell DNA (HCD) assays. These assays monitor vaccine and mAb quality and help ensure high product quality during Investigational New Drug (IND) submissions.

  • Support the planning and execution of research experiments within the laboratory’s overall research program.

  • Carry out independent investigations or new technology evaluations.

  • Support laboratory staff on research projects and techniques.

  • Initiate, develop, and assist with new method development for mAb and multispecific antibody projects.

  • Define clear problem statements that lead to well-designed experimental plans.

  • Investigate methods and products with issues, particularly using electrophoresis, size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), ion-exchange chromatography (IEC), and other liquid chromatography (LC) technologies.

  • Establish new capabilities for characterizing multispecific assembly and misassembled products.

  • Develop an mRNA/lipid nanoparticle (LNP) quantification method for the new mRNA vaccine development program.

  • Perform release and characterization analyses to deepen understanding of new mRNA/LNP vaccines.

  • Maintain laboratory equipment and train others in its use.

  • Research, evaluate, and recommend new bioseparation analytical technologies that strengthen the group’s product release, characterization, and investigation capabilities for all mAb and vaccine projects.

  • Assist in maintaining adequate space and facilities for ongoing and projected research studies.

  • Apply advanced working knowledge of related scientific disciplines to solve project and product problems.

  • Evaluate, analyze, and interpret research data, and communicate results and methods in reports, presentations, and manuscripts.

  • Contribute to one or more peer-reviewed scientific publications.

  • Participate in study design and investigational experiments involving new adjuvant components, mRNA, and lipid components.

  • Deliver quality testing reports.

  • Coordinate with junior staff to modify research protocols.

  • Anticipate and resolve conflicts in project priorities or work arrangements.


Disclaimer: The above description is meant to illustrate the general nature of work and level of effort being performed by individuals assigned to this position or job description. This is not restricted as a complete list of all skills, responsibilities, duties, and/or assignments required. Individuals may be required to perform duties outside of their position, job description or responsibilities as needed.


The diversity of Axle’s employees is a tremendous asset. We are firmly committed to providing equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and will not tolerate any illegal discrimination or harassment based on age, race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, marital status, covered veteran status, sexual orientation, status with respect to public assistance, and other characteristics protected under state, federal, or local law and to deter those who aid, abet, or induce discrimination or coerce others to discriminate.


Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact: careers@axleinfo.com


This role has a market-competitive salary with an anticipated base compensation range listed below. Actual salaries will vary depending on a candidate’s experience, qualifications, skills, and location.

Salary Range

$100,000 - $110,000 USD

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