Research And Development Assistant

IR Scientific is a Canadian company based in Halifax, NS since 2018. At IR Scientific we are passionate about the discovery and development of breakthrough oral health technologies based on naturally sourced and 100% degradable biomaterials.

Our high-performance, dynamic, flexible team is built on a culture of respect and commitment. We’re now entering an exciting phase of our company’s growth and are building out our team to execute on some exciting initiatives with international partners.

About the Role

Under the supervision of the R&D Associate, the R&D Assistant works with the cross-functional team to support glass innovation and product development activities by forming, processing, and testing glass for various applications and by providing general support for the lab.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collect, enter, and analyze laboratory data and provide interpretation of results.
• Perform related duties as assigned by Supervisor.
• Execute lab tests and analysis.
• Perform routine calibration and maintenance activities and report equipment issues upon awareness.
• Preparation of buffers, reagents, standards, etc.
• Conduct directed lab activities throughout the development lifecycle for glass applications and products.
• Assist in troubleshooting equipment, as needed.
• Positively interact with external stakeholders such as suppliers.
• Maintain compliance with all company policies and procedures.
• Work with cross-functional team to introduce/develop new equipment and processes, as required.
• Create, review, and maintain documentation in accordance with GDP’s including records, procedures, work instructions, specifications, and methods.
• Actively participate in risk management activities, e.g., hazard analysis, pFMEAs.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly work environment.
• Lead, participate in, or support lab and nonconformance investigations.
• Participate in safety and quality audits.
• Support smooth operation of the lab by performing receiving, inventory, and other assigned activities.
• Perform glass melting and processing intended for multiple uses and applications.
• Prepare reports and make presentations to communicate plans and findings.

Key Qualifications:

• Experience in glass-melting and processing an asset.
• Attention to detail with critical thinking.
• Quality focus with a strong attention to detail and an analytical mindset and work approach.
• Self-motivated, organized, methodical with the ability to prioritize.
• Experience working with general laboratory equipment, e.g., analytical balance, centrifuge.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate with internal and external customers.
• Excellent computer proficiency (MS Office 365 - Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Teams).
• Experience working with gas pycnometry, DSC, laser diffraction particle size analysis, and ion selective electrodes an advantage.
• Diploma/degree in a science-related subject with lab experience in a regulated environment preferred.

Requirements

• Safe handling of hazardous materials and molten glass.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, respirator, safety glasses and shoes to protect from exposure to hazards including acids, high temperature exposure, etc.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. for brief periods of time.
• Ability to work overtime a nd weekends on occasion.
• Continuous standing, lifting, bending, and twisting for extended periods of time up to 8 hours