Job Summary
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 proteomic analysis.
- Experience with proteomic data analysis software (e.g., Skyline, FragPipe, Proteome Discoverer, DIA-NN) for protein and peptide identification and quantitation.
- Understanding of bioanalytical processes, including sample preparation, calibration, quality control, instrument operation/troubleshooting, method development, data processing, and reporting.
- Familiarity with analytical testing needs in drug discovery, biomarker verification, and/or clinical or translational proteomics.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn and apply new proteomic techniques to client and program needs.
- Familiarity with GMP/GLP/GCP regulations and willingness to apply these practices in daily work; experience in a regulated laboratory is a plus.
- Strong scientific writing skills for data summaries, reports, and manuscripts; peer-reviewed publications, posters, or presentations in proteomics/MS preferred.
Critical Success Factors
- Results Driven. Drives efficiently and accurately toward results, setting high but achievable standards and continually seeking process improvements.
- Efficient. Takes ownership of time and effectiveness, acting proactively, working through challenges, and knowing when to seek guidance.
- Communication. Communicates complex information clearly and articulately, in oral and written form, tailored to audience and purpose.
- Collaboration. Actively supports team success, shares information, and gets things done with others.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving. Identifies key components of problems, interprets information from varied sources, and generates and evaluates creative solutions.
- Organization and time Management. Plans and prioritizes work, manages time to meet deadlines, and follows through on commitments.
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
- Work is normally performed in a typical interior office work or laboratory environment
- Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include use of protective equipment
- The noise level is usually moderate
- This position will frequently be involved with radiant/electrical energy, solvents, grease, oil, irritants, acids, bases, and other hazardous chemicals, electro-mechanical hazards, flammable materials and bio-hazards.
- Due to exposure to hazardous biological material (which may include HIV positive specimens), immunization to Hepatitis B and/or other diseases may be a requirement.
- This position will require frequent walking, sitting and/or standing for extended periods of time, carrying, heavy lifting (max. 50 lbs), reaching while standing, gripping and twisting hand movements, finger control and other general repetitive motions (for more than four [4] hours per day)
- Able to wear latex or nitrile gloves, dust mask or respirator, and safety glasses as required.
- Manual dexterity to operate laboratory equipment and calculator/computer
- Able to read and interpret test results and instrument specifications
Why Inotiv
- Real science, real impact. Your data feeds directly into decisions on active drug discovery programs — the biomarker you help quantify this quarter could inform a clinical strategy next year.
- Mentorship that builds expertise. You'll learn alongside senior proteomics scientists, with support for training in proteomics, mass spectrometry, and regulated bioanalysis.
- Breadth of experience. Gain exposure to targeted and global proteomics, GxP and non-GxP work, and cross-functional programs spanning pharmacology and pathology.
- A platform built to grow. Help evaluate new mass spectrometry technologies and workflows, and contribute to posters, publications, and presentations that showcase Inotiv's proteomics capabilities.
*This position could be offered at different levels for candidates who qualify with a combination of advanced levels of education and/or years of experience. The salary range will adjust along with the level of the role to match the person’s relevant experience and/or education level.
At Inotiv, our work helps advance the development of new medicines and therapies that can improve people's lives. As a leading global contract research organization (CRO), we partner with researchers to tackle complex scientific challenges, drive innovation, and help build a healthier, safer world. Bringing together scientists, researchers, technical experts, and business professionals, we provide the expertise and collaboration needed to move research forward. Our people make this work possible, and we value the knowledge, ideas, and contributions each person brings to the team. Whether you are starting your career or bringing years of experience, Inotiv offers opportunities to learn, grow, and play a meaningful role in advancing treatments for patients around the world.
Salary will be commensurate with experience and responsibilities. Benefits include health and dental coverage, short- and long-term disability, paid time off, paid parental leave, 401K, and more!
Inotiv is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to provide a fair and equal employment opportunity to all persons, regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination and access to benefits and training.