Scientist (Biotech)
Today, Lonza is a global leader in life sciences operating across five continents. While we work in science, there's no magic formula to how we do it. Our greatest scientific solution is talented people working together, devising ideas that help businesses to help people. In exchange, we let our people own their careers. Their ideas, big and small, genuinely improve the world. And that's the kind of work we want to be part of.
We are seeking a Media Development Scientist to join our Cell Discovery team in Durham, NC. In this role, you will lead R&D initiatives focused on developing and optimizing research-use-only (RUO) cell culture media for advanced drug discovery and cell and gene therapy (CGT) applications. You'll play a key role in designing experimental strategies, supporting cross-functional collaborations, contributing to innovation pipelines, and ensuring technical excellence. This is an onsite role offering hands-on involvement in shaping impactful products for cutting-edge scientific research.
Key Responsibilities:
Media Development: Design and optimize RUO media formulations for various cell types, including primary cells, co-cultures, and 3D organoid models
Application-Specific Optimization: Tailor media to support diverse assays such as ADME-Tox, phenotypic screening, and mechanism-of-action studies
Experimental Execution: Conduct and manage lab-based experiments, including media comparisons, titration studies, and routine cell culture
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with R&D, pilot operations, commercial, and supply chain teams to address unmet needs and ensure material consistency
Innovation & Product Development: Contribute to the RUO pipeline by identifying and benchmarking new media formulations and product opportunities
Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyze experimental data, maintain technical documentation, and present findings in internal project meetings
External Engagement: Publish research in peer-reviewed journals, collaborate with academic and industry partners, and contribute to patent filings
Mentorship & Leadership: Provide guidance to junior team members and serve as a scientific resource within the team
Key Requirements:
Ph.D. or M.S. in Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related field with relevant hands-on media development experience
Proven expertise in cell culture techniques across multiple cell types, including primary and 3D cell models
Strong understanding of assay development and alignment of media performance with analytical needs (e.g., ELISA, qPCR, imaging)
Familiarity with bioreactor systems and scale-up strategies is a plus
Demonstrated ability to lead R&D projects and collaborate in a cross-functional team environment
Strong data analysis, documentation, and communication skills
Prior experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals and contributing to intellectual property is preferred
Ability to work in a non-GMP, research-focused environment with a high degree of scientific rigor
We recognize that attracting, developing and retaining the best talent is key to our strategy and success as a company. As a result, we aim for flexibility in structuring competitive compensation offers to ensure that we are able to attract the best candidates. As required by law in this state, the quoted salary range for this on-site position is $81,000.00 – $129,000.00. We use broad salary ranges that reflect the competitive market for similar jobs, provide sufficient opportunity for growth as you gain experience and expand responsibilities; while also allowing for differentiation on performance based on the breadth of our ranges, most new hires will start at the company between the lower and the middle part of the applicable range. We tailor our offers within the range based on job-related factors, including organizational needs, internal equity, market data, geographic area and the selected candidate's experience, education, industry knowledge, location, technical and/or communication skills and other factors that may prove relevant during the selection process. This range is only inclusive of base salary, and base pay is just one component of Lonza's total compensation package for employees. Full-time employees are eligible to receive a performance-related bonus, as well as a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental coverage, 401k plan, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time off (PTO), and more.
Every day, Lonza's products and services have a positive impact on millions of people. For us, this is not only a great privilege, but also a great responsibility. How we achieve our business results is just as important as the achievements themselves. At Lonza, we respect and protect our people and our environment. Any success we achieve is no success at all if not achieved ethically.
People come to Lonza for the challenge and creativity of solving complex problems and developing new ideas in life sciences. In return, we offer the satisfaction that comes with improving lives all around the world. The satisfaction that comes with making a meaningful difference.
Lonza is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a qualified individual with disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
