Lead Scientist In Vitro ADME Assay Automation

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AI & Automation in Drug Discovery (AIDD) at EMD is building and scaling AI-driven and automated discovery capabilities. We connect machine learning, computational science, and lab automation to enable closed-loop chemistry and biology experimentation and faster, higher-quality scientific decisions. In our Boston-area autonomous make-and-test lab, automated synthesis, analytical characterization, and biological readout come together to accelerate discovery.

Your role:
We are hiring a Lead Scientist, In Vitro ADME Automation for AIDD in Billerica, MA. This is a hands-on scientific leadership role, not a people-management position. You will define, establish, and scale automated in vitro ADME and bioassay capabilities, translate benchtop assays into automation-ready workflows, and partner across biology, chemistry, automation, software, and AI/ML to deliver robust biological readouts for closed-loop discovery.

• Lead scientific design and deployment of automation for in vitro ADME assays.
• Translate bench assays into robust, high-throughput, automation-ready protocols with strong throughput, reproducibility, and data quality.
• Partner with automation and software teams on liquid handling, controls, QC, metadata capture, and integrated readouts.
• Analyze assay data, troubleshoot performance, and drive continuous improvement.
• Evaluate new assay formats, detection technologies, and advanced cell models where they add clear value.
• Contribute to SOPs, documentation, training, and safe lab operations.
• Bring a strong cultural fit for a collaborative, high-performing, high-trust science and technology team.

Who You Are:

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Molecular Biology, or a related field; or equivalent depth of experience with an MS or BS degree.
• 3+ years of relevant industry experience with a PhD, or 5+ years with an MS or BS, in pharma, biotech, or CRO.
• Hands-on experience designing and interpreting in vitro ADME or related assays in higher-throughput settings.
• Experience transferring assays into automated workflows or working closely with automation teams to do so.
• Strong understanding of assay controls, qualification, variability reduction, and data quality.
• Strong communication skills and ability to influence technical direction across functions.
• Strong customer centric mindset

Preferred Requirements

• Experience with liquid handlers, workcells, orchestration platforms, or assay data pipelines.
• Experience with organoids, primary cells, co-cultures, or patient-derived models is an advantage.
• Experience in autonomous experimentation, AI-enabled discovery, or integrated LC-MS / high-content readouts.

What We Offer:

• Opportunity to shape the biological assay layer of a leading autonomous discovery capability.
• Direct influence on how AI, automation, and experimental biology are connected at scale.
• An interdisciplinary team with deep science, engineering, software, and data expertise.

This is an on-site role in Billerica, MA. Travel is expected to be limited and mainly related to vendor interactions, technology evaluations, or key project milestones.

Pay Range for this position: $110,700 - $161,100. The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here:

What we offer: We are curious minds that come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe that this variety drives excellence and innovation, strengthening our ability to lead in science and technology. We are committed to creating access and opportunities for all to develop and grow at your own pace. Join us in building a culture of inclusion and belonging that impacts millions and empowers everyone to work their magic and champion human progress!

Apply now and become a part of a team that is dedicated to Sparking Discovery and Elevating Humanity!

Job Requisition ID:  298679

Location:  Billerica

Career Level:  D - Professional (4-9 years)

Working time model:  full-time, part-time possible

North America Disclosure
The Company is committed to accessibility in its workplaces, including during the job application process. Applicants who may require accommodation during the application process should speak with our Candidate Services team at 844-655-6466 from 8:00am to 5:30pm ET Monday through Friday. If you are a resident of a Connecticut or Colorado, you are eligible to receive additional information about the compensation and benefits, which we will provide upon request.  You may contact 855 444 5678 from 8:00am to 5:30pm ET Monday through Friday, for assistance.

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Nearest Major Market: Boston
Job Segment: R&D, Biology, Molecular Biology, Research Scientist, Pharmaceutical, Research, Science

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