Senior Scientist - Microscopy and Surface Characterization

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 114,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated scientist with deep expertise in microscopy-based surface characterization techniques. The successful candidate will be responsible for analyzing the physical surface characteristics of a wide range of materials, including metals and polymers, using advanced microscopy tools. This role is ideal for someone with a strong background and experience in materials science, surface analysis, and scientific communication.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform surface characterization of materials using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and 3D Optical Surface Profilometry.

• Optimize instrument parameters and settings to obtain high-resolution, artifact-free images for detailed surface analysis.

• Analyze and interpret microscopy data to draw meaningful conclusions about the surface properties of materials.

• Quantitatively assess surface roughness, texture, surface area, peak-to-valley height, surface skewness, and other topographical parameters for comprehensive surface analysis.

• Perform advanced data analysis on SEM and other microscopy datasets using specialized metrology software, applying appropriate filters and processing techniques to extract quantitative insights into surface morphology and material characteristics.

• Prepare samples appropriately for non-contact optical measurements, ensuring surface integrity, especially for delicate or soft materials like polymers.

• Troubleshoot measurement challenges such as optical artifacts, signal loss on steep features, and stitching errors in large-area scans.

• Develop and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure reproducibility, data integrity, and compliance with quality standards.

• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and documentation based on experimental findings.

• Contribute to the preparation and publication of high-impact, peer-reviewed journal articles.

• Present research findings at scientific conferences and internal technical meetings.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support broader research and development initiatives.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree (± 16 years) B.S in biological or physical sciences, or mathematics

• Minimum 5 years 5+ years of progressively responsible positions in a research development environment.

• M.S or PhD preferred

• Practical Lab Skills with increasing knowledge complexity with experience

• More advanced Problem –solving skills with experience

• Has good knowledge of science and the ability to apply more complex and advance

• principles and techniques with experience

• Accountability/ Scope: Contributes to project plan. Responsible for project completion. Broader exposure and scope to project across functional area

Preferred Qualifications:

• B.S. in Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field.

• Extensive hands-on experience with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and 3D Optical Profilometry, with the ability to independently operate , troubleshoot, and optimize these systems.

• Strong understanding of surface morphology and topography analysis for metals, polymers, and other materials.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proven ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams across various divisions and business units.

• Ability to manage time-sensitive projects and deliver high-quality data within deadlines.

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field .

• Proficiency in additional microscopy techniques such as Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy, Fluorescence Microscopy, Phase-Contrast Microscopy, and Optical Microscopy.

• Experience in scientific writing, with a demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals and present research at scientific conferences.

The base pay for this position is $78,000.00 – $156,000.00. In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.