Job DescriptionThe Staff R&D Scientist provides advanced scientific leadership in the development, optimization, and lifecycle management of IVF media products. This role serves as a subject matter expert (SME) in culture media and solution chemistry, driving innovation, resolving complex technical challenges, and influencing product and process strategies.
The individual collaborates cross-functionally to translate scientific insights into scalable, manufacturable, and compliant solutions, while contributing to the long-term technical roadmap and competitive positioning of the IVF portfolio.
Responsibilities- Serve as a technical lead and SME in IVF media formulation, performance, and stability
- Lead the design and development of new media products and platform improvements
- Provide ownership and technical oversight of Design History Files (DHFs), ensuring alignment with product lifecycle activities, regulatory expectations, and design control requirements; lead updates, gap assessments, and audit readiness
- Drive root cause investigations and complex troubleshooting for sustaining issues
- Define experimental strategies and ensure application of robust scientific and statistical methodologies
- Lead advanced data analysis and interpretation to guide decision-making
- Provide technical oversight during scale-up and technology transfer to manufacturing
- Influence product and process strategy, including formulation, raw material selection, and specifications
- Collaborate cross-functionally (Quality, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Commercial) to support product lifecycle and compliance
- Identify and lead innovation initiatives and continuous improvement efforts
- Mentor junior scientists and engineers, fostering technical development within the team
- Ensure high-quality documentation in compliance with GMP and design control requirements
- Contribute to intellectual property, publications, or technical differentiation strategies (where applicable)
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or related field required.
- Master's or Ph.D. preferred.
- Deep expertise in cell culture, IVF/ART media, or related life sciences
- Knowledge of IVF/ART media development is highly desirable
- Strong knowledge of solution chemistry (pH, buffers, molarity, osmolality)
- Familiarity with GMP, ISO, and regulatory requirements
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Advanced experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation skills
- Well organized with attention to detail and ability to carry out tasks independently
- Good project management, organizational and follow-through skill set
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including ability to translate technical concepts to diverse audiences
- High level of independence, accountability, and scientific judgment
As an employee of CooperSurgical, you'll receive an outstanding total compensation plan. As we believe your compensation goes beyond your paycheck, we offer a great compensation package, medical coverage, 401(k), parental leave, fertility benefits, paid time off for vacation, personal, sick and holidays, and multiple other perks and benefits. Please visit us at www.coopersurgical.com to learn more about CooperSurgical and the benefits of becoming a member of our team.
As an employee of CooperSurgical/CooperVision, you'll receive a competitive total compensation plan. Your recruitment team will be able to share more information about any variable pay opportunity and benefit package that accompanies this role. The good faith estimate of the salary range for this role is $158,570 to $211,426. The actual amount offered is determined by a number of factors including but not limited to location, skills and experience.
