Scientist II

Company: United States Pharmacopeia
Location: Rockville
Posted on: March 15, 2026

Job Description:

Description Who is USP? The U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention (USP) is an independent scientific organization that collaborates with the worlds leading health and science experts to develop rigorous quality standards for medicines, dietary supplements, and food ingredients. At USP, we believe that scientific excellence is driven by a commitment to fairness, integrity, and global collaboration. This belief is embedded in our core value of Passion for Quality and is demonstrated through the contributions of more than 1,300 professionals across twenty global locations, working to strengthen the supply of safe, high-quality medicines worldwide. At USP, we value inclusive scientific collaboration and recognize that attracting diverse expertise strengthens our ability to develop trusted public health standards. We foster an organizational culture that supports equitable access to mentorship, professional development, and leadership opportunities. Our partnerships, standards, and research reflect our belief that ensuring broad participation in scientific leadership results in stronger, more impactful outcomes for global health. USP is proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer (EEOE) and is committed to ensuring fair, merit-based selection processes that enable the best scientific mindsregardless of backgroundto contribute to advancing public health solutions worldwide. We provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and uphold policies that create an inclusive and collaborative work environment. Brief Job Overview This is a hands-on, non-supervisory position in USPs Reference Standards Laboratory. The Scientist I will contribute to the scientific expertise and work ethic of the laboratory through a broad range of technical support and knowledge. A Scientist II has mastered many common techniques in the laboratory and is able to contribute their own observations and input to difficult projects. The incumbent will provide technical assistance to collaborative testing and the continued suitability for use program by performing analytical tests, reviewing analytical data, and preparing summary reports. The incumbent may execute 90% - 100% of their work at the bench level. How will YOU create impact here at USP? As part of our mission to advance scientific rigor and public health standards, you will play a vital role in increasing global access to high-quality medicines through public standards and related programs. USP prioritizes scientific integrity, regulatory excellence, and evidence-based decision-making to ensure health systems worldwide can rely on strong, tested, and globally relevant quality standards. Additionally, USPs People and Culture division, in partnership with the Equity Office, invests in leadership and workforce development to equip all employees with the skills to create high-performing, inclusive teams. This includes training in equitable management practices and tools to promote engaged, collaborative, and results-driven work environments. The Scientist II has the following responsibilities: Scientist II is on the scientific ladder at USP with very strong technical, innovative and project management abilities in a high paced working environment. Demonstrates solid scientific approach to analysis in the laboratory. Routinely applies personal experience, academic training, and technical insights including emerging sciences to solve complex technical problems within the laboratory. Conducts analysis of reference standard candidates using a broad range of analytical methodologies. Organizes, implements, and evaluates testing of reference standards materials. Records experimental data, ensuring clear and accurate transcription of results and calculations. Reviews literature for analytical test methods, as well as interprets and evaluates data. Executes all testing and analysis of data with excellence and essentially no errors. Demonstrates a strong desire to continue learning and grow personal capability. Pursues, recommends, and implements new approaches or processes to improve laboratory operations. Positively influences project direction by ensuring their own work is congruent with overall direction of laboratory projects. Assists with other testing programs and duties in the laboratory as needed. Who is USP Looking For? The successful candidate will have a demonstrated understanding of our mission, commitment to excellence through inclusive and equitable behaviors and practices, ability to quickly build credibility with stakeholders, along with the following competencies and experience: B.A. /B.S. in Science and 4 years of relevant laboratory experience. MS degree with 2 years of relevant experience in field of chemistry, pharmacy, or equivalent. Working knowledge of common analytical methods and procedures [examples include Infrared Spectroscopy (IR), Ultraviolet Spectroscopy (UV), Chromatography (TLC, HPLC, GC)], and expertise in calibrating and operating analytical instruments are required. Extensive understanding of chromatographic analyses, as well as other general analytical chemistry principles required. Additional Desired Preferences Strong communication and presentation skills, both verbal and written. Experience working in the pharmaceutical and/or biotechnology industry is strongly preferred. Knowledge of DEA, ICH guidelines and FDA regulations, and experience with compendial procedures and compliance strongly preferred. Proficiency with electronic documentation systems is strongly preferred. Takes personal responsibility to ensure work is delivered on time and is of the highest possible quality. Skills to anticipate, troubleshoot, and solve technical problems. Supervisory Responsibilities None, this is an individual contributor role. Benefits USP provides the benefits to protect yourself and your family today and tomorrow. From company-paid time off and comprehensive healthcare options to retirement savings, you can have peace of mind that your personal and financial well-being is protected. Compensation Base Salary Range: USD $73,400.00 $93,300.00 annually. Target Annual Bonus: % Varies based on level of role. Individual compensation packages are based on various factors unique to each candidates skill set, experience, qualifications, equity, and other job-related reasons. Note: USP does not accept unsolicited resumes from 3rd party recruitment agencies and is not responsible for fees from recruiters or other agencies except under specific written agreement with USP. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor. Job Category Chemistry & Scientific Standards Job Type Full-Time

Keywords: United States Pharmacopeia, Baltimore , Scientist II, Science, Research & Development , Rockville, Maryland