Job Description

Job title: Research Associate
Job statement: The Research Associate's role is to work in early research and development to drive the invention and development of novel diagnostic products.
Location: Santa Barbara, CA (On-site required)

About us
Aptitude Medical Systems is a startup deep-tech healthcare company. Our mission is democratizing diagnostics by empowering individuals to access their health and diagnostic information anytime, anywhere. Aptitude created a simple, accurate, and easy-to-use diagnostic platform that fits in the palm of the hand and allows anyone to run a complex lab-quality PCR test in their own hands in minutes. Aptitude’s lead product, Metrix™ COVID-19 Test, is the first FDA-authorized molecular diagnostic test to work with saliva or swab samples for at-home and over-the-counter use without physician supervision, and we have a product pipeline that includes tests for a wide range of health and wellness conditions. Imagine being able to consult your doctor, run the diagnostic tests you need, and get a prescription without having to leave your home. That's the future we're building. Come join us!

About the role
We are seeking to hire multiple capable and driven entry-level Research Associates to join our tight-knit research and development team. In this position, you will be working closely with a cross-functional team of mission-driven scientists and engineers to drive the invention and development of novel diagnostic products.

In this role you will:

• Learn and master various nucleic acid amplification and detection technologies, including PCR and various isothermal amplification technologies.
• Build a strong foundation for conducting scientific research.
• Accumulate hands-on laboratory research experience.
• Gain valuable industry experience by contributing directly to developing novel diagnostic products.
• Enjoy growth opportunities inherent to a fast-growing startup.

The work location for this position is Santa Barbara, California – an idyllic location offering immense natural beauty, outdoor adventure, big city amenities in a mid-sized town, and easy access to California’s metropolitan centers.

Responsibilities

• Understand project objectives, develop experimental plan, and properly prioritize tasks.
• Conduct molecular biology and bioengineering experiments under direction of senior staff.
• Document experimental results, analyze data, and communicate results to senior staff.
• In this dynamic working environment, other responsibilities may be added.

Qualifications

• Humble, transparent, and embodying a team-first attitude.
• Reliable, meticulous, and hard-working.
• Independent, resourceful, and self-motivated.
• Hands-on expertise in routine lab techniques (PCR, DNA/RNA manipulation, purification and quantification techniques, etc.), and in-depth understanding of their fundamental mechanism.
• In-depth understanding of quantitative PCR (qPCR) and molecular diagnostics is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• Research experience in either an academic or industry setting is a plus.
• Experience working in a BSL2 environment is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation.
• Growth opportunities inherent to a fast-growing startup.
• 401K Plan with company matching.
• Medical insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Flexible paid time off.
• Immigration support.

Aptitude Medical Systems is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. Employment decisions regarding recruitment and selection will be made without discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, genetic information or characteristic, gender identity and expression, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state or local law.