Sr Research Scientist

Job Title: Study Director

Job Description

Join our dynamic team in the ADME In vitro Screening department, focusing on Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME). This role involves conducting studies to understand how the body interacts with drugs and compounds. You will work in a metabolism lab using in-vitro techniques to analyze biological samples such as plasma, blood, urine, and feces. This position offers the opportunity to be cross-trained in both biology and chemistry aspects of drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research with both animal and human biological samples, focusing on in-vitro techniques.
• Utilize basic wet chemistry techniques such as pipetting, plate reading, and liquid handling.
• Perform stability assays, protein binding assays, and enzyme inhibition assays.
• Operate Mass Spectrometry (MS) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) equipment.
• Maintain and grow mammalian cell lines for assay preparation.
• Employ sterile techniques and perform cell counting and extractions.
• Handle and conduct studies from start to finish using cell lines, blood, or plasma.
• Develop assays and run research projects for clients.
• Problem-solve by understanding the project’s big picture and selecting appropriate tools.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in aseptic and sterile techniques.
• Experience in chemistry and wet chemistry processes.
• Knowledge of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry.
• B.S. degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Drug Discovery, or related Life Science field.
• Proficient in liquid handling and pipetting.
• Understanding of biological samples and PCR techniques.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Drug Discovery, or related Life Science field preferred.
• 0-3 years of experience in the field.
• Experience in drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics.
• Familiarity with Hamilton robotics or liquid handling equipment.
• Experience with UV-vis plate readers, cell counters, and various assays.
• Experience in mammalian cell culture, cloning, or plasmid transfections.
• Experience with qPCR techniques and sterile technique.

Work Environment

This position is within a busy lab environment focused on drug development and discovery. The role involves working as part of the Discovery BioA and In-vitro Screening teams. It is a fast-paced and high-stress environment that offers the unique opportunity to manage studies from start to finish, a rarity in many labs. The lab encourages a coachable, open-minded, and motivated approach to learning and problem-solving.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Madison, WI.

The pay range for this position is $40.87 - $43.27/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 Madison,WI.

This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.