Contract Method Development Scientist – Fiber Length Characterization

Contract Method Development Scientist – Fiber Length Characterization
Location:

Onsite – Baltimore, MD
Engagement Type:

Contract / Temporary
Duration:

Approximately 2–3 months, with possibility of extension
Schedule:

Full‑time, onsite laboratory work
Pay Rate:

Competitive senior‑level contract rates (hourly)

Role Overview
We are seeking a

senior, hands‑on Method Development Scientist

to support development and optimization of analytical methods for measuring fiber length of

PCL nanofibers . This is a focused, project‑based contract role requiring strong experimental design skills, analytical judgment, and the ability to work independently in a laboratory setting.

Our current fiber length method involves SEM imaging with manual fiber tracing, which suffers from variability due to inconsistent sample preparation, fiber entanglement, and subjective interpretation. We are evaluating more robust and potentially automated approaches, including image‑based particle analysis using a

Malvern Morphologi

system and/or alternative techniques. The successful candidate will own the evaluation, optimization, and recommendation of a go‑forward method.

This role is

onsite and hands‑on , not remote or execution‑only.

Key Responsibilities

Evaluate limitations and variability sources in current SEM‑based fiber length measurement methods

Design and execute experiments to improve sample preparation, fiber dispersion, and measurement reproducibility

Assess feasibility of automated or semi‑automated image‑based approaches (e.g., Malvern Morphologi or similar systems) for fibrous materials

Define objective criteria for identifying individual fibers versus aggregates or intertwined fibers

Conduct side‑by‑side method comparisons (manual vs automated approaches) with appropriate data analysis

Troubleshoot method variability using hypothesis‑driven experimentation

Summarize findings in clear, well‑organized technical documentation

Provide data‑driven recommendations on method readiness, limitations, and next steps toward validation

Required Qualifications

B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field

Demonstrated

hands‑on method development experience

for particle, fiber, or morphology analysis

Strong understanding of microscopy, image analysis, and sample preparation challenges

Experience working with

polymeric materials, fibers, or nanomaterials

Proven ability to independently design experiments, interpret data, and troubleshoot variability

Ability to clearly document and communicate technical decisions and conclusions

Preferred / Nice‑to‑Have Experience

Experience with Malvern Morphologi or similar image‑based particle analysis systems

SEM experience with fibrous or soft materials

Experience transitioning manual, subjective methods into more robust or automated workflows

Familiarity with regulated or GMP‑adjacent laboratory environments

What Success Looks Like

Reduced subjectivity and variability relative to current SEM‑based method

Clear understanding of strengths, limitations, and applicability of automated image‑based approaches

Optimized sample preparation and measurement workflow(s)

Written recommendation for a defensible fiber length measurement strategy suitable for further development or validation

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