Scientist II, Cell & Molecular Biology

About the Role

This position sits within PPD, a part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, and focuses on laboratory-based scientific work that supports the development of bioassays and cell-based methods. The job is based in Athlone, Ireland and follows a standard Monday to Friday schedule. The work takes place in both laboratory and office settings.

The team’s mission is to help customers improve health outcomes by delivering accurate, high-quality scientific work that contributes to safer, cleaner and healthier communities. The broader organisation operates across clinical research, laboratory services, digital services and decentralised trials worldwide.

What You Will Do

The core purpose of the role is to support the planning, execution and oversight of development projects related to new bioassay methods, refinement of existing methods, and transfer of client-supplied methods.

• Work with limited supervision on development projects tied to bioassay creation, validation, optimisation and method transfer.
• Partner with clients regularly and provide project progress updates.
• Support the development of junior scientists through training and mentoring.
• Investigate and resolve issues related to instruments and method performance.
• Draft technical reports and scientific papers.
• Carry out quantitative and qualitative analysis using immunochemistry and cell-based assay techniques.
• Work in line with ICH and USP standards as well as FDA GMP requirements.

Education and Experience

A degree, or an equivalent qualification, in life science, biochemistry, immunology or cell biology is required. A suitable mix of education, training and directly relevant experience may also be accepted.

The role expects 2 to 3 years of prior experience, or a comparable combination of education, training and experience, that has equipped the candidate for the responsibilities of the job.

Skills and Abilities

• Experience with mammalian cell culture and bioassays
• Knowledge of flow cytometry
• Exposure to qPCR and ddPCR techniques is beneficial
• Ability to develop cell-based and immunology-based assays
• Strong Microsoft Excel and Word skills
• Technical writing capability
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting ability
• Good time management and project coordination skills
• Clear written and verbal communication
• Ability to collaborate effectively and also work independently
• Comfort working in a fast-moving environment with changing priorities
• Capability to train and mentor junior team members

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

The role requires strong communication and the ability to work with diverse groups of people. Candidates should be able to remain upright or stationary for standard working hours, move objects weighing up to 25 pounds, and work in non-standard environments. Familiarity with standard office equipment and technology is important.

There may be exposure to potentially hazardous materials, including infectious agents commonly found in healthcare or laboratory environments. The role also requires the ability to perform under pressure while managing multiple priorities and tasks.

Equal Opportunity and Accessibility

The employer is committed to equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other protected characteristic.

Accessibility support is available for job seekers with disabilities who need help during the application process. Requests for accommodation can be made by telephone, and the dedicated line is intended only for disability-related accessibility assistance.

Additional Information

Work schedule: Standard Monday to Friday.

Environment: Laboratory setting and office.

Location: Athlone, Ireland.

Mission: The organisation aims to help customers make the world healthier, cleaner and safer while supporting scientific innovation and patient needs.

Values: Integrity, Intensity, Innovation and Involvement.