Discovery Scientist I

About the Role

Discovery Scientist I - Cell Biology and Automated Compound Management at Cleveland Clinic. This is a non-patient-facing role within Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Experimental Therapeutics, focused on advancing early drug discovery projects. You will work within a highly integrated, cross-functional research team, collaborating with experienced scientific mentors to design and execute experiments, develop expertise in modern drug discovery methods, analyze data, and contribute to scientific presentations. The role operates on a day shift (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.).

Key Responsibilities

• Perform required Center standard operating procedures (SOPs) with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate consistent quality and accuracy in daily work.
• Follow laboratory safety and compliance policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with an experienced scientific mentor to design and execute experiments.
• Assist with troubleshooting and identifying potential solutions to laboratory challenges.
• Calculate, record, compile, and report experimental data.
• Maintain electronic laboratory notebooks with minimal supervision.
• Address problems related to daily laboratory activities.
• Maintain laboratory inventories and order materials as needed.
• Demonstrate proficiency in the use of laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Maintain instrumentation and equipment for daily use in accordance with training and established SOPs.
• Contribute to publications, manuscripts, and patent applications.
• Assist in training technicians, trainees, and students as needed.
• Participate in team meetings and collaborate within a multidisciplinary environment, including with Cleveland Clinic collaborators, to discuss research and contribute ideas.
• Perform routine tissue culture.
• Help establish and routinely perform automated cell-based assays in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Help establish chemical biology assays for target engagement studies.
• Assist with compound management for high-throughput screening using automated liquid handlers, automated compound storage systems, and integrated informatics systems to track compounds.
• Maintain an electronic laboratory notebook, manage laboratory reagents and supplies, and ensure a clean, safe, and organized working environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field.
• Entry Level (0-2 years) of relevant experience.
• Excellent communication skills (both verbal and technical).
• Strong interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Undergraduate thesis or research experience in an Organic Chemistry Lab with exposure to synthetic methodology or synthesis.
• Research experience in a biology or Biochemistry lab.
• Other related experience with demonstrated leadership.
• Prior hands-on laboratory experience in cell biology or molecular biology.

Physical Requirements

• May be exposed to hazardous biological, vaporous, and odorous materials.
• Manual and visual dexterity required.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Continuous lifting, standing, and walking.
• Follows standard precautions using personal protective equipment as required.

Compensation

• Pay Range Minimum Annual Salary: $47,530.00
• Pay Range Maximum Annual Salary: $72,475.00

This range is for new hires and does not include potential shift differentials, overtime, or the value of Cleveland Clinic's benefits package.