MSAT Scientist

R&D Partners; Geel; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

R&D Partners in Belgium is seeking an MSAT Scientist to join our Analytical Science and Technology team. You will develop and implement analytical methods for mammalian cell culture processes, with emphasis on qPCR and ELISA for host cell impurity analysis.

The role includes method transfer, protocol writing, and data-driven problem solving. You will design experiments, validate methods, and generate high-quality reports while ensuring cGMP compliance.

Qualifications

• PhD in Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or equivalent experience.
• Strong hands-on expertise with qPCR and ELISA methods for host cell impurity analysis.
• Experience with analytical method development, qualification and validation.
• Excellent analytical problem-solving and data interpretation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and document protocols clearly.

Responsibilities

• Serve as an expert in analytical qPCR and ELISA methods.
• Execute method handover from R&D to MSAT with documentation and training.
• Guide transfers of validated methods from MSAT to QC, including troubleshooting and reporting.
• Design, develop, improve, and validate analytical methods for production processes.
• Independently design experiments and conduct analytical studies.
• Generate study protocols and scientific reports of high quality.
• Monitor method performance and perform data trending for reliability.
• Investigate root causes of analytical deviations.
• Present findings in team meetings and support laboratory testing activities.

Skills

qPCR & ELISA

Analytical method development

DOE experiments design

Data trend & statistics

Technical writing

Project management

Analytical problem solving

Host cell impurity analysis

cGMP awareness

English fluency

Education

PhD in Life Sciences/ Biochemistry/ Biotechnology

Tools

qPCR instruments

ELISA platforms

SDS-PAGE equipment

Job description

Ready to shape the future of biologics by developing the analytical methods that bring life-changing therapies from the lab to patients?

R&D Partners is seeking a skilled MSAT Scientist to join the Analytical Science and Technology (AST) team at a cutting-edge biopharmaceutical facility in Belgium. This role is part of the global Manufacturing Science Analytics and Technology (MSAT) organization, where you will play a pivotal role in developing and implementing critical analytical methods to ensure the quality and consistency of mammalian cell culture-based processes across an international biologics network.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative therapies, including monoclonal antibodies, fusion proteins, ADCs, synthorins, and nanobodies, while advancing your expertise in a collaborative and scientifically stimulating environment.

Please note that to be considered for this role you must have the right to work in this location.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as an expert in analytical qPCR and ELISA methods.
• Execute method handover from R&D to MSAT, ensuring comprehensive documentation, training, and knowledge transfer for operational readiness.
• Guide and support transfers of validated qPCR and ELISA methods from MSAT to QC, including troubleshooting, protocol writing, and reporting.
• Design, develop, improve, and validate analytical methods for existing and new production processes.
• Independently design experiments and conduct analytical studies.
• Generate high-quality scientific study protocols and reports.
• Perform data trending and monitoring of analytical methods to ensure reliability and effectiveness.
• Conduct root cause investigations for analytical deviations.
• Present findings and results during team meetings.
• Support small‑scale testing activities in the laboratory.

Key Skills and Requirements:

• PhD in Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or equivalent experience.
• Strong hands‑on expertise with qPCR and ELISA methods, particularly for host cell impurity analysis.
• Knowledge of protein characterization techniques such as SDS-PAGE and Western/Southern/Northern blots is advantageous.
• Proven experience in analytical method development, qualification, and validation.
• Excellent analytical problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Willingness to support both laboratory work and desk‑based analysis.
• Strong technical writing skills for preparing protocols and reports.
• Ability to critically analyze data, draw scientifically sound conclusions, and formulate them effectively.
• Proficiency in basic statistical analysis and interpretation of method performance parameters.
• Experience designing and executing DOE experiments for assay qualification‑validation and interpreting complex datasets.
• Solid understanding of cGMP requirements and ability to translate them into actionable plans.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken); Dutch language skills are a plus.