Discovery Bioanalytical Scientist

Actalent; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 59,000 - 79,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Lead Scientist Discovery Bioanalytics in Madison, WI to lead LC-MS bioanalytical projects from design through data reporting, mentoring scientists, and coordinating cross‑team activities.

The role emphasizes method development, QA/QC of analytical data, and collaboration with discovery and development teams to drive drug candidates forward in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or related field with 2+ years of industry or postdoctoral experience.
• OR - M.S. degree with 4+ years of relevant industry experience.
• 5+ years of hands-on LC-MS experience.
• Strong background in analytical chemistry and bioanalysis.
• Experience leading projects in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
• Excellent organization, communication, and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead LC-MS bioanalytical projects from study design through data reporting
• Oversee sample preparation, method qualification, and biological sample analysis
• Operate, optimize, and troubleshoot LC-MS instrumentation
• Review analytical data and ensure high-quality results are delivered on aggressive timelines
• Coordinate project activities and serve as a key point of contact for study teams
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to scientists and laboratory staff
• Support client communication, project updates, and scientific discussions
• Contribute to SOPs, method development, and continuous process improvements

Skills

Project leadership

Communication

Time management

Mentorship

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Analytical Chemistry

M.S. with 4+ years industry experience

Tools

LC-MS instrumentation

Bioanalysis techniques

Study design

Job description

Lead Scientist Discovery Bioanalytics

Join a cutting-edge Discovery Bioanalytical team supporting early-stage drug development.

In this role, you'll lead Fast PK studies that help researchers quickly understand how potential drug candidates behave in the body, directly influencing which compounds advance through the development pipeline.

What You'll Do

• Lead LC-MS bioanalytical projects from study design through data reporting
• Oversee sample preparation, method qualification, and biological sample analysis
• Operate, optimize, and troubleshoot LC-MS instrumentation
• Review analytical data and ensure high-quality results are delivered on aggressive timelines
• Coordinate project activities and serve as a key point of contact for study teams
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to scientists and laboratory staff
• Support client communication, project updates, and scientific discussions
• Contribute to SOPs, method development, and continuous process improvements

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or related field with 2+ years of industry or postdoctoral experience
• OR -
• M.S. degree with 4+ years of relevant industry experience
• 5+ years of hands-on LC-MS experience
• Strong background in analytical chemistry and bioanalysis
• Experience leading projects in a fast-paced laboratory environment
• Excellent organization, communication, and time management skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Large molecule bioanalysis experience
• Experience running LC-MS instrumentation
• Experience supporting pharmacokinetic (PK) or drug discovery studies
• Experience managing high-volume projects with rapid turnaround times
• Prior experience mentoring scientists or providing technical leadership

Why Apply?

• Lead studies that directly impact drug discovery decisions
• Work with advanced LC-MS technologies and bioanalytical methods
• Collaborate with scientists across discovery and development teams
• Own projects from start to finish while expanding your technical and leadership skills
• Join a fast-paced, science-driven environment where your expertise makes a visible impact

Job Type & Location

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

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $43.27 - $57.69/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Madison,WI.

Application Deadline

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

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [e-mail] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.