Proteomics has emerged as a critical discipline driving contemporary drug discovery and clinical pharmacology. Once reserved as a support function to biochemistry organizations, proteomics is now an integral part of the drug discovery engine, working as a concerted discipline-team alongside pharmacology and molecular pathology within the Discovery & Translational Sciences (DTS) Division of Inotiv. We're looking for an early-career scientist who is excited by that mission and wants to grow their expertise where proteomic data makes a real difference.
The Scientist I, Proteomics is a Master's- or PhD-level scientist who conducts targeted and global proteomic bioanalytical studies supporting drug discovery, biomarker, and translational research programs. Working under the guidance of senior proteomics staff, this role performs hands-on sample preparation, LC-MS/MS analysis, and data processing, contributes to the development and qualification of proteomic assays, and supports communication of results to Study Directors and Sponsors. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career scientist to grow their technical and scientific expertise within a collaborative, cross-functional drug discovery environment.
Scientific Responsibilities
- Contributes proteomics expertise to cross-functional project teams within DTS, collaborating with In Vivo Pharmacology, Molecular/Cellular Pharmacology, and Investigative & Molecular Pathology to support biomarker discovery, target validation, and translational research programs.
- Supports the evaluation and implementation of new mass spectrometry-based technologies and workflows, including biomarker-based expression profiling efforts in partnership with Molecular Pathology.
- Supports communication with Study Directors and Sponsors on targeted and global proteomics bioanalytical projects, and contributes to scientific posters, publications, and presentations that showcase Inotiv's proteomics capabilities.
- Performs, and contributes to the design of, targeted and global/discovery proteomics studies under the direction of senior scientists, ensuring compliance with established best practices and SOPs.
- Executes and assists with method development and validation (GxP and non-GxP) and sample-preparation workflows (protein digestion, immunoaffinity enrichment, high-abundance protein depletion, phospho-proteomics); operates and performs routine maintenance on LC-MS/MS instrumentation, chromatography, and automation systems.
- Performs bioinformatic and statistical analysis of proteomic datasets (e.g., Skyline, FragPipe, Proteome Discoverer) to identify, quantify, and interpret protein and peptide biomarkers, and presents findings to the project team.
- Drafts and revises SOPs for proteomic sample preparation, LC-MS/MS methods, and data analysis; stays current with scientific literature and emerging technologies.
- Builds working knowledge of Inotiv's capabilities, particularly at the Nashville site; performs quality control checks of data, prepares data summaries and report sections, and troubleshoots method and assay issues, escalating to senior staff as appropriate.
- Shares technical knowledge with colleagues and may assist in training team members on established proteomic and mass spectrometry techniques.
- Follows GLP and SOP requirements, including timely reporting of deviations, accurate documentation, and archival of study data and samples.
- Works with study management and operations teams to keep projects on track and support customer satisfaction from initiation through completion.
- Upholds Inotiv Core Values, safety regulations, and confidentiality standards, and interacts professionally with clients, colleagues, and the community.
Teamwork & Professional Development
- Works collaboratively within the proteomics team and with cross-functional partners to meet project timelines and deliverables.
- Takes ownership of professional development, seeking out training and mentorship to deepen expertise in proteomics, mass spectrometry, and regulated bioanalysis.
- Participates actively in team meetings, scientific discussions, and continuous-improvement initiatives.
- Contributes to an environment that supports the company's commitment to equal employment opportunities and the value of a diverse workforce.
Minimum Requirements
- Master's degree or PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field, with hands-on experience in mass spectrometry-based proteomics.
- 2-3 years of relevant industry experience (e.g., CRO, biotech, or pharmaceutical) or postdoctoral training in proteomics or a related field preferred.
- Hands-on experience with targeted and/or global/discovery proteomic workflows, including operation of high-resolution LC-MS/MS instrumentation for peptide and protein analysis.
- Working knowledge of protein/peptide separation, digestion, and enrichment techniques (e.g., immunoaffinity capture, fractionation, high-abundance protein depletion) and chromatographic systems used for pr