Research Associate I-II

Theradaptive, Inc.; Frederick (MD); On-site; USD 69,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

Theradaptive, Inc. in Frederick, MD, seeks a Research Associate I-II to design, execute, analyze, and present data from experiments supporting R&D and product development. The role is lab-based, involving implant material processing, protein characterization, and 3D printing and electrospinning.

Ideal candidates have a breadth of knowledge in bioengineering or materials science, strong data analysis and communication skills, and the ability to plan and troubleshoot to meet project timelines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related engineering or science field.
• Experience with bioassays, immunoassays, and protein binding assays.
• Proficiency in CAD and 3D printing software.
• Experience with polymer processing and 3D printing technologies.
• Statistical analysis skills.
• Industrial internship or up to 3 years of work experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute studies for medical device development and product/process development.
• Train on bioassays and immunoassays.
• Use polymer compounding to blend polymers and functional fillers.
• Utilize 3D printing and electrospinning methods.
• Prepare buffers following defined procedures.
• Lyophilize regenerative scaffold materials containing therapeutic proteins.
• Document experiments and present results for senior staff.

Skills

Bioengineering

Materials Science

Chemical Engineering

Biochemistry

Mechanical Engineering

Education

Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in Bioengineering / related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Fusion 360

Cura

Slic3r

Job description

Theradaptive is revolutionizing the field of therapeutic delivery with a pipeline of best-in-class products that address multiple global markets. Theradaptive is performing cutting edge science in regenerative medicine, working at the interface of biology and tissue repair.

Our lead therapeutics are in the following indications:

• Spinal Fusion
• Long Bone Repair
• Osteochondral Repair
• Dental and Facial Bone Repair
• Immuno-Oncology

We are an innovative, fast-paced team that is advancing a diverse array of cutting-edge translational research projects.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Research Associate I-II will support designing, executing, analyzing, and presenting data from experiments to support R&D and product development projects. This is a laboratory-based position with responsibilities in implant material processing and characterization, protein characterization using analytical methods, buffer formulation optimization, advanced bioscaffold manufacturing methods e.g. 3D printing, electrospinning, etc. and manufacturing process development. The Research Associate I/II will communicate results and troubleshoot issues that impact data quality and project timelines to Theradaptive’s Principal Engineer and Product Development team.

Our ideal candidate will possess a breadth of knowledge and creativity and will be highly motivated. Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with staff at all levels are needed to succeed in this role.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Plan and execute studies associated with medical device development, in support of product and process development
• Train on and conduct a wide variety of bioassays, protein binding assays, and immunoassays
• Use polymer compounding methods, such as twin-screw extrusion, to homogeneously blend medical grade polymers and functional filler materials.
• Utilize advanced medical device and/or bioscaffold manufacturing methods, including 3D printing, electrospinning with a variety of materials comprising of ceramic, polymer, hydrogel, metal and/or composite materials
• Prepare buffers following defined procedures
• Lyophilize (freeze dry) regenerative scaffold materials that contain therapeutic proteins, resulting in a shelf-stable combination medical device
• Evaluate bioinks, electrospinning slurries and other feedstock materials suited for 3D printing, electrospinning and clinical use. These materials may be electrospun or 3D printed via extrusion-based methods (FFF, FGF, syringe-based bioprinting), powder-based methods (SLS, binder jetting), photolithographic methods (SLA, DLP).
• Utilize Computer Aided Design (CAD) software to design scaffold implants
• Document experiments, results, and findings in a lab notebook.
• Independently prepare technical reports to summarize data and document experimental conclusions
• Create slide decks summarizing technical results and recommendations on paths forward and present them to senior technical staff and/or outside collaborators.
• Independently design experiments and implement work plans
• Coordinate effectively with team members to plan and execute product development activities
• Communicate project status, roadblocks and results to supervisors and managers in a clear and effective manner
• Understand and adhere to laboratory safety precautions and proper use of personal protective equipment
• Contribute to writing of SOPs and Work Instructions for 3D Printing, Electrospinning and Bioanalytical lab processes.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in Bioengineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
• Experience with bioassays, immunoassays, protein binding assays, polymer compounding, 3D printing, 3D bioprinting, electrospinning, lyophilization (or some combination of these) is preferred.
• Working knowledge of basic descriptive and inferential statistical methods (curve fitting, error analysis, etc.)
• Strong technical writing and technical presentation ability
• College internship and/or up to 3 years of work experience in an industrial setting is preferred
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g. Solidworks, Fusion 360, etc.), and 3D printing slicing software (e.g. Cura, Slic3r) is preferred.
• Highly proficient with data analysis tools (Excel, GraphPad Prism) and presentation tools (Word, Powerpoint)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to work in a laboratory and office setting. Approximately 75% of the day may be spent in the laboratory.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to work in a laboratory with chemicals and biochemicals and perform Biosafety Level 2 work

SALARY RANGE

• $69,000-$87,000 annually, based on qualifications and level.

POSITION LOCATION:

• Theradaptive corporate headquarters and laboratory in Frederick, MD.