Contract Method Development Scientist – Fiber Length Characterization

Location: Onsite – Baltimore, MD
Engagement Type: Contract / Temporary
Duration: Approximately 2–3 months, with possibility of extension
Schedule: Full‑time, onsite laboratory work
Pay Rate: Competitive senior‑level contract rates (hourly)

Role Overview

We are seeking a senior, hands‑on Method Development Scientist to support development and optimization of analytical methods for measuring fiber length of PCL nanofibers. This is a focused, project‑based contract role requiring strong experimental design skills, analytical judgment, and the ability to work independently in a laboratory setting.

Our current fiber length method involves SEM imaging with manual fiber tracing, which suffers from variability due to inconsistent sample preparation, fiber entanglement, and subjective interpretation. We are evaluating more robust and potentially automated approaches, including image‑based particle analysis using a Malvern Morphologi system and/or alternative techniques. The successful candidate will own the evaluation, optimization, and recommendation of a go‑forward method.

This role is onsite and hands‑on, not remote or execution‑only.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate limitations and variability sources in current SEM‑based fiber length measurement methods
• Design and execute experiments to improve sample preparation, fiber dispersion, and measurement reproducibility
• Assess feasibility of automated or semi‑automated image‑based approaches (e.g., Malvern Morphologi or similar systems) for fibrous materials
• Define objective criteria for identifying individual fibers versus aggregates or intertwined fibers
• Conduct side‑by‑side method comparisons (manual vs automated approaches) with appropriate data analysis
• Troubleshoot method variability using hypothesis‑driven experimentation
• Summarize findings in clear, well‑organized technical documentation
• Provide data‑driven recommendations on method readiness, limitations, and next steps toward validation

Required Qualifications

• B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• Demonstrated hands‑on method development experience for particle, fiber, or morphology analysis
• Strong understanding of microscopy, image analysis, and sample preparation challenges
• Experience working with polymeric materials, fibers, or nanomaterials
• Proven ability to independently design experiments, interpret data, and troubleshoot variability
• Ability to clearly document and communicate technical decisions and conclusions

Preferred / Nice‑to‑Have Experience

• Experience with Malvern Morphologi or similar image‑based particle analysis systems
• SEM experience with fibrous or soft materials
• Experience transitioning manual, subjective methods into more robust or automated workflows
• Familiarity with regulated or GMP‑adjacent laboratory environments

What Success Looks Like

• Reduced subjectivity and variability relative to current SEM‑based method
• Clear understanding of strengths, limitations, and applicability of automated image‑based approaches
• Optimized sample preparation and measurement workflow(s)
• Written recommendation for a defensible fiber length measurement strategy suitable for further development or validation

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