Associate Scientist I at Sakura Finetek in Torrance, CA

DESCRIPTION   General Position Summary As a member of the product development team, among the Associate Scientist I’s main responsibilities are the execution of experimental protocols and collection of data. The Associate Scientist I is expected to actively participate in protocol development and design, as well as data interpretation. Areas of research and development may include any of Sakura’s anatomic pathology product lines.  As such, the successful candidate is expected to learn the function and operation of all Sakura instrument systems, tissue fixation, processing, embedding, sectioning and staining. The candidate must be able to collate data and write up results in a clear and concise manner.     The technical experience required for this position includes some of the following areas: microtomy, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, in situ hybridization, immunoassays, formulation of reagents, spectrophotometric analysis, experimental design with proper selection and implementation of controls, replicates, and acceptance criteria, and general laboratory testing or quality evaluation activities.    Essential Job Functions • Executes experimental protocols. • Collects and collates data. • Provides clearly written documentation of experimental results. • Prepares reagents and tissues. • Operates and maintains laboratory equipment. • Facilitates technology development processes. • Works in a multi-disciplined scientific environment. • Engages in design, testing and troubleshooting software, consumables, reagents and instrumentation. • Is in compliance with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations. • Contributes to company’s patent applications or development of proprietary technology. • Works with all functions within the Sakura group to launch new products. • Participates on product development teams, task forces, audits, and business or technical meetings. • Maintain laboratory organization and cleanliness • Assist with chemical inventory management and consumable tracking • Assist with waste removal and laboratory maintenance activities • Performs other duties and projects assigned.   Quality/Business Systems Activities • Adheres to GxP requirements, including Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Good Documentation    Practices (GDP), and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). • Ensures compliance with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations.   Information Management & Reporting Activities        • Provides clear and concise technical information in experimental notebooks. • Keeps management informed by creating meaningful summaries of developmental results.   Other Skills • Interacts with managers and team members in a professional and proactive manner.   Essential Job Requirements  Education  • BS.degree in cell biology, immunology, biochemistry, or other relevant scientific/engineering discipline, or equivalent combination of education and experience.   Experience & Minimum Qualifications • 1-2 years of experience in research, product development or manufacturing setting. • Preference is given to experience in the medical device, pharmaceutical, or FDA regulated laboratory environment.  • Experience in pathology, immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence, histology, biotechnology, reagent optimization, or reagent packaging is a plus.   • Preference given to candidates with product development/design control/IVD experience. • Requires clear and concise verbal and written communication skills; good technical writing skills; good computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.).  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Physical Requirements & Working Environment  • This position requires the employee to work in a laboratory environment.  It involves frequent walking, standing, and sitting.  In addition, the employee is required to use hands and fingers and reach with hands and arms. • Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. • Ability to successfully respond to multiple work pressures. • Requires reading, math, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data; developing and implementing methodologies/plans/processes for accomplishing a goal.   "Sakura Finetek USA, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.”  The above description identifies the essential job functions and skills needed by the person or persons assigned to this position.  These job functions and skills are not intended to be a complete and exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.  The information contained herein is subject to change at the company's discretion.