Scientist I, Microbiology

Driven by a commitment to research, quality, and service, PDI provides innovative products, educational resources, training, and support to prevent infection transmission and promote health and wellness. Encompassing three areas, our Healthcare, Sani Professional and Contract manufacturing divisions, we develop, manufacture, and distribute leading edge products for North America and the world. We have several locations across the US and are looking for new Associates to join our team! 

POSITION PURPOSE

This position is a member of the R&D Microbiology team to conduct antimicrobial testing, method development and scientific research in support of New and Existing Product Development (NPD/EPD) pipeline for products in drug (OTC, DIN, NHP), medical device, cosmetic, disinfectant (EPA, DIN) and general household products areas.

The primary function of this position is to plan, execute, and document disinfectant efficacy (e.g., AOAC 961.02 Germicidal Spray/Towelette, ASTM E2362, ASTM E2967, ASTM E3218 for C. difficile spores, ASTM 3363), preservative effectiveness for cosmetics/personal care (USP <51>, PCPC M5), and GMP microbiological quality testing (USP <60>/<61>/<62>, bioburden/objectionables). 

The position is a key component of scientific advancement and supports new market launches with input across all facets of project progression including scientific insights, prototype assessment and registration testing to meet regulatory requirements. In addition, this role will contribute to studies that enhance PDI’s current portfolio and will be encouraged to take ownership of assigned workstreams and deliver high-quality results that support competitive differentiation.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT: 

• Perform antimicrobial testing according to regulatory (FDA/EPA) requirements in a BioSafety Level-2 laboratory.
• Support development of novel methodologies.
• Support projects and scientific endeavors.
• Analyze experimental data, ensuring accuracy and reproducibility.
• Draw meaningful conclusions and guides further development.
• Evaluate root causes and create investigation plans for complex research problems.
• Management of external studies at 3^rd party labs.
• Record data in a coherent and reproducible manner.
• Capable of presenting experimental data.

 LABORATORY SUPPORT: 

• Responsible for equipment calibration/verification and associated documentation.
• Optimize laboratory space to ensure an efficient flow of work.
• Media preparation and glassware processing.
• Perform regularly scheduled testing of R&D water systems.
• Manage the laboratory’s documentation for chemical and organism inventory.
• Perform testing with proper aseptic technique to avoid contamination.
• Culture maintenance and management.
• Lab notebook entry and approval.
• Maintain stocks of organisms relevant to the upcoming studies.

PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS

• Ability to work in partnership with product development and regulatory functions.
• Support work stream timelines and be able to balance priorities according to stakeholder needs.
• Able to communicate and cooperate with other team members and cross function teams effectively.
• Demonstrate ability to add value to the organization through scientific excellence.
• Take ownership of assigned tasks and demonstrate initiative in managing deliverables with minimal supervision.
• Maintain accountability for data integrity, documentation, and timely execution of lab work.
• Apply sound judgment in experimental design and troubleshooting, with support from senior scientists.

 QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION

• University Degree in a Biological Science required.

REQUIRED/KNOWLEDGE

• Previous experience in a regulated R&D environment supporting Antimicrobial Products.
• Strong Microbiology understanding.
• Working knowledge of EPA or FDA regulations.

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Previous internship/experience in a Microbiology Laboratory strongly preferred.
• Ability to articulate previous Microbiology projects, their goals, techniques used and conclusions.
• Proficient with a variety of antimicrobial test methods.

SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Analytical and continuous improvement mindset.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal / written).
• Ability to explain science to management.
• Prudent risk taker. Identifies opportunities and takes risks to achieve objectives.

SALARY RANGE:

• $60k-$68k

BENEFITS

 PDI is pleased to offer comprehensive and affordable benefits for our associates, which includes:

• Medical, behavioral & prescription drug coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Dental
• Vision
• 401(k) savings plan with company match and profit sharing
• Basic and supplemental Life and AD&D insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Short & long-term disability
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Health Advocacy Program

PDI also offers many voluntary benefits such as: Legal services, critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident coverage, ID theft and fraud protection, pet insurance and employee discounts.

At PDI, we are also committed to helping our associates maintain a healthy and sustainable work/life balance and are proud to provide associates with paid time off programs including:  sick & safe leave, vacation, company & floating holidays, paid parental leave, and depending on the position we also offer summer hours and flex place/flex time options.