Associate Scientist II
Baxter International
- Location
- Round Lake, Illinois
- Work model
- On-Site
- Level
- Entry
- Posted
- Sep 4, 2026
About this role
This is where your work makes a difference. At Baxter, we believe every person—regardless of who they are or where they are from—deserves a chance to live a healthy life. It was our founding belief in 1931 and continues to be our guiding principle. We are redefining healthcare delivery to make a greater impact today, tomorrow, and beyond. Our Baxter colleagues are united by our Mission to Save and Sustain Lives. Together, our community is driven by a culture of courage, trust, and collaboration. Every individual is empowered to take ownership and make a meaningful impact. We strive for efficient and effective operations, and we hold each other accountable for delivering exceptional results. Here, you will find more than just a job—you will find purpose and pride. Your role at Baxter At Baxter, your work helps drive innovation that improves and saves lives. As an Associate Scientist II within R&D, you'll play a critical role in solving complex technical challenges that support product quality, manufacturing excellence, and new product development. Leveraging advanced microscopy and analytical techniques, you'll investigate root causes, identify particles and materials, and generate insights that influence decisions across our global organization. You'll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing while building expertise in cutting-edge characterization methods and therapeutic product knowledge.
What You'll Do
Lead and execute laboratory investigations focused on particle identification, failure analysis, root cause investigations, and manufacturing process capability. Design and perform experiments independently, applying scientific principles and analytical techniques to solve both routine and complex technical challenges. Utilize advanced microscopy and spectroscopy tools to characterize materials, identify particles, and support product and process development initiatives. Partner with cross-functional teams across global R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing organizations to drive scientific solutions and continuous improvement. Evaluate data, interpret results, and provide sound technical recommendations that influence project direction and business decisions. Identify opportunities to improve existing analytical approaches, methodologies, and processes through innovative thinking and emerging technologies. Contribute to feasibility assessments and technical evaluations for new research concepts, products, and process improvements. Ensure all research activities, documentation, and reporting meet applicable quality, safety, and regulatory requirements, including GxP standards.
What You'll Bring
Hands-on experience with analytical and characterization techniques such as: Stereomicroscopy Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) Raman Spectroscopy Strong scientific problem-solving skills and the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable recommendations. A collaborative mindset with the ability to contribute effectively within cross-functional project teams. Intellectual curiosity and a passion for learning new technologies, methods, and scientific approaches. Excellent communication and technical writing skills. Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Education & Experience
Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 3+ years of relevant industry experience; or Master's degree or higher in a related scientific field. Why Baxter? Join a team where your expertise in microscopy and particle science directly impacts product quality, patient safety, and innovation. You'll have the opportunity to work