Job Description

Job title: Research Scientist
Job statement: The Research Scientist's role is to develop novel molecular diagnostic products for Aptitude's Metrix™ diagnostic platform.
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 Research Scientists 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:

• Create and translate proof-of-concept new molecular diagnostic assays into functional product prototypes ready for clinical development.
• Develop leadership skills by collaborating with and leading Aptitude’s passionate Research Associates.
• Have the autonomy to initiate and develop new technologies, and implement them in new products.
• Gain valuable industry experience by participating directly in all aspects of novel diagnostic product development, including project planning, product design, research and development, product verification and validation, quality, transfer to manufacturing, scale-up, and commercial production.
• Join world-class researchers and entrepreneurs to deploy and grow your skills to solve major unmet needs in health care and make a meaningful difference in the world.

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, and work with the management team to conceive and develop innovative approaches to achieve them.
• Understand underlying science and fundamental concepts behind the products in development, especially isothermal amplification technologies and electrochemistry.
• Identify and synthesize key information from internal and external knowledge bases to take charge in devising and executing strategies to attain desired product functionality.
• Design and run experiments efficiently with high reproducibility.
• Achieve objectives by troubleshooting experiments and implementing practical or creative solutions.
• Document experimental results, analyze data and outcomes, and discuss with the R&D team.
• Interface with product development team, manufacturers, and commercial or clinical collaborators.
• Assist in drafting proposals, technical reports, and publications.

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant field (e.g. molecular biology, chemistry, biochemistry, bioengineering, chemical engineering, materials engineering).
• Hands-on expertise in developing nucleic acid amplification tests/sensors and in-depth understanding of their fundamental mechanism.
• Enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and driving new product development.
• Highly resourceful with ability to devise solutions to reach project goals.
• Humble, transparent, and embodying a team-first attitude.
• Reliable, meticulous, and hardworking.
• Proven ability to thrive in a goal-oriented environment and manage time effectively to reach milestones.
• Effective communication, discussion, reporting, and analysis.
• Experience with fabrication, device prototyping, and scripting 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.