Job Information
Actalent Study Director in Madison, Wisconsin
Job Title: Study DirectorJob Description
Join a dynamic team within the ADME In vitro Screening department, focusing on drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics. This role involves conducting and managing in-vitro studies, which analyze how a drug or compound is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted by the body. The work integrates both biological and chemical expertise, primarily involving laboratory work with biological samples.
Responsibilities
Conduct research involving biological samples such as plasma, blood, urine, and feces from both human and animal sources.
Perform cross-training in both biology and chemistry aspects, starting from the candidate's area of expertise.
Support the life team by processing samples using basic wet chemistry techniques like pipetting, plate reading, and centrifuge operations.
Run stability assays, protein binding assays, enzyme inhibition assays, and operate Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS).
Maintain and grow mammalian cell lines for assay readiness, ensuring sterile techniques and accurate cell counting.
Conduct test-tube based studies similar to animal studies, involving dosing, sampling, and sample analysis.
Manage research projects from inception to completion, including running assays and developing new assays.
Liaise with clients as the main contact, providing insights and updates on project progress.
Engage in problem-solving to understand project goals and determine the appropriate methodologies and tools.
Essential Skills
Proficiency in aseptic and sterile techniques.
Experience in chemistry, particularly wet chemistry methods and equipment.
Familiarity with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry.
Ability to handle biological samples and perform PCR.
Expertise in cell culture and biology, particularly mammalian cell culture.
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Drug Discovery, or related Life Science field.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Drug Discovery, or related Life Science field with 0-3 years of experience.
Strong background in chemistry over cell biology.
Experience in drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics.
Coachable, open-minded, and driven to learn new things.
Experience with Hamilton robotics or liquid handling, LC-MS, UV vis Plate reader, cell counters, and pipetting.
Work Environment
The role is based in a busy lab environment within the Discovery BioA - In-vitro team, focusing on screening. It is a fast-paced and high-stress setting, requiring meticulous attention to detail and efficiency. The lab uses advanced technologies and equipment to conduct high-volume and stringent assays, contributing to the development of pharmaceutical compounds.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Madison, WI.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $40.87 - $43.27/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Madison,WI.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 25, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.