Associate Scientist II: Microscopy & Particle Analysis

Baxter International Inc.; Round Lake (IL); On-site; USD 88,000 - 121,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Life insurance

Disability insurance

ESPP

401(k)

Paid time off 20–35 days

Parental leave

Commuting benefits

Educational assistance

Job summary

At Baxter International Inc., an Associate Scientist II in R&D will lead investigations into particle identification, root cause analyses, and manufacturing process capability, applying advanced microscopy and spectroscopy to solve complex challenges.

You’ll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing to drive scientific solutions, build expertise in characterization methods, and support future product development while aligning with GxP and regulatory

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant science with 3+ years of industry experience, or a Master’s degree in a related field.
• Hands-on analytical and characterization skills with microscopy and spectroscopy methods.
• Strong problem solving and ability to translate data into actionable recommendations.
• Excellent communication and technical writing skills; cross-functional collaboration.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute laboratory investigations focused on particle identification, failure analysis, root cause investigations, and manufacturing process capability.
• Design and perform experiments independently, applying scientific principles and analytical techniques to solve routine and complex challenges.
• Utilize advanced microscopy and spectroscopy tools to characterize materials, identify particles, and support product and process development initiatives.
• Partner with cross‑functional teams across global R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing to drive scientific solutions and continuous improvement.
• Evaluate data, interpret results, and provide technical recommendations that influence project direction and business decisions.
• Identify opportunities to improve existing analytical approaches, methodologies, and processes through innovative thinking and emerging technologies.
• Contribute to feasibility assessments and technical evaluations for new research concepts, products, and process improvements.
• Ensure all research activities, documentation, and reporting meet applicable quality, safety, and regulatory requirements, including GxP standards.

Skills

Stereomicroscopy

PLM

SEM

EDS

FTIR

Raman

Data interpretation

Cross-functional collaboration

Technical writing

Excel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering (3+ years)

Master’s degree or higher in related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

At Baxter International Inc., an Associate Scientist II in R&D will lead investigations into particle identification, root cause analyses, and manufacturing process capability, applying advanced microscopy and spectroscopy to solve complex challenges.

You’ll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing to drive scientific solutions, build expertise in characterization methods, and support future product development while aligning with GxP and regulatory