Senior Scientist, Core Lab Ops & Strategic Growth

The Innovation Space; Wilmington (DE); On-site; USD 69,000 - 137,000; Full time

Job summary

The Innovation Space, a UD-affiliated nonprofit, seeks a Senior Scientist to lead operational and strategic activities for DISI’s analytical chemistry, biology, and materials characterization core labs. Seconded from UD, you will guide client-focused testing, oversee equipment and safety, and mentor staff and partners.

You will help expand core capabilities, benchmark against industry standards, and pursue external funding to grow services for startups in targeted sectors.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, or related field with 4+ years of postdoctoral or industry experience.
• Hands-on experience with analytical techniques spanning chemistry, biology, and materials science.
• Experience overseeing multi-disciplinary lab environments with equipment maintenance and safety protocols.
• Strong problem-solving, data interpretation, and scientific communication skills.
• Proficiency in ChemStation and TopSpin or related platforms.

Responsibilities

• Serve as lead technical advisor across analytical chemistry, biology, and materials characterization labs, assisting clients in experimental design, testing methodologies, and data analysis.
• Coordinate cross-disciplinary support for client projects, ensuring lab capabilities align with objectives.
• Oversee daily operations of analytical core labs, including equipment maintenance and safety.
• Develop SOPs and ensure compliance across all lab areas.
• Provide training and mentorship to staff, portfolio company employees, and third-party providers.
• Lead strategic growth initiatives to attract clients in advanced materials, life sciences, and related fields.

Job description

The Innovation Space, a UD-affiliated nonprofit, seeks a Senior Scientist to lead operational and strategic activities for DISI’s analytical chemistry, biology, and materials characterization core labs. Seconded from UD, you will guide client-focused testing, oversee equipment and safety, and mentor staff and partners.

You will help expand core capabilities, benchmark against industry standards, and pursue external funding to grow services for startups in targeted sectors.