Introduction to Ardena

As a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), Ardena partners with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes—from emerging biotech to global industry leaders—united by the mission to help biopharma innovators navigate drug development with precision, quality, and speed, bringing their molecules from discovery to the clinic and market. Our fully integrated services span drug substance and drug product development, manufacturing, nanomedicine, clinical logistics, bioanalytical services, state research, fill & finish, and CMC regulatory support.

With a rapidly growing international footprint, Ardena is home to over 750 professionals across six strategic locations—Belgium (Ghent), the Netherlands (Oss and Assen), Sweden (Södertälje), Spain (Pamplona), and Somerset, New Jersey (the US). Our open and transparent culture is built on collaboration, ownership, and innovation, guided by our We CARE values. We foster a communicative environment where mutual respect, accountability, and excellence empower our team.

We are looking for skilled and motivated professionals eager to grow their careers in an exciting and fast-paced environment. Whether you’re an experienced expert or just starting out, Ardena provides a dynamic workplace where you can contribute to meaningful drug development projects, expand your knowledge, and be part of a global team committed to making a difference. As an international organization, we help you navigate a career path that expands your possibilities beyond borders, opening doors to personal and professional growth without limits. Your potential to grow is limitless with us.

If you are ready to take on new opportunities, work alongside industry experts, and contribute to the future of medicine, Ardena is the place for you.
 

WHAT YOU WILL WORK ON

YOUR ROLE

The Microbiology Department is responsible for performing microbial testing of raw materials and finished products (for clinical, commercial, and customer products) according to current compendia methodology. The Microbiology Department is also responsible for Environmental Monitoring of the facility and utilities at Catalent Somerset.

The Senior Associate Microbiologist reports to the Microbiology Manager/Principal Microbiologist/Senior Microbiologist. This position contributes significantly to the successful timely testing and releasing of Raw Materials, in-process samples, and Finished Products of GMP and/or Commercial pharmaceutical Manufacturing.

The primary responsibilities of this position will be performing microbial activities in support of the manufacturing of pharmaceutical products under the supervision of other microbiologists. These activities include raw material testing, in process testing, finished product testing, environmental sampling and testing, and water sampling and testing.

YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Works on problems of minimal scope where analysis requires in-depth evaluation of factors. Exercises judgement within generally defined practices. Acts independently on routine tasks and under general supervision on new assignments. Demonstrates potential for technical proficiency and scientific creativity.
• Carries out analytical activities in support of the manufacturing of pharmaceutical products under supervision of other scientists in the department. These activities include raw material testing, in-process testing, finished product testing, sample analysis, and physical evaluation of products. Method development and/or method validation project are within the scope of this position.
• With supervision, provides GMP testing support for quality assurance of products. This includes assisting in writing protocols and reports; ordering lab supplies
• Perform environmental sampling and testing.
• Write/update test and sampling procedures with moderate supervision.
• Prepare summary reports and certificates.
• Perform microbial sampling/testing activities within scheduled timelines.
• Maintain notebooks and files compliant with current GMPs and SOPs.

YOUR PROFILE 

• BS in Microbiology or related science.
• Bachelor’s Degree with 1-3 years related experience.
• Working knowledge and application of scientific principles and techniques.
• General knowledge of compendial microbiology requirements.
• Experience with computer software associated with word processing and spreadsheets.
• Mathematical and reasoning ability.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.                                                                                                                         

WHAT WE OFFER

At Ardena, we recognize that our people drive our success. We offer:

✔ A competitive salary with a tailor-made benefits package, including: medical, dental and vision benefits effective day one of employment
✔ Paid Time Off
✔ A dynamic, global work environment with career growth opportunities
✔ Access to Ardena Academy, our internal learning platform for professional development
✔ A chance to contribute to groundbreaking drug development projects that make a real impact

HOW TO APPLY

Ready to start your career path with Ardena? Click the application button and join us in shaping the future of drug development!