Job Description

BioDot is looking for cytogeneticists to help support and expand the CellWriter automated system for Cytogenetics and Molecular Cytogenetics. This revolutionary product for FISH dramatically changed lab economics and CellWriter is shaping the way FISH and Karyotyping experiments are performed around the world. The ideal candidate will be able to work in a fast paced environment, have a passion for cytogenetics, and an interest in automation. This is a great opportunity for a technologist who wants to expand their career outside the standard laboratory environment and participate in the growth phase of a new technology.

The Field Application Scientist (CW) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless operation and optimal performance of BioDot instruments across various customer environments. This multifaceted position blends technical expertise with customer-centric responsibilities, requiring a deep understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, proficiency in software and hardware functionalities, and the ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex issues. Beyond technical prowess, the FAS engages extensively with customers, providing comprehensive training on instrument operation, delivering software and hardware support, and fostering strong professional relationships. With a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, the FAS contributes to protocol development, implements advanced programming solutions, and collaborates across cross-functional teams to enhance workflow efficiency and drive strategic initiatives. Overall, the FAS role embodies a unique blend of technical acumen, customer interaction, and proactive problem-solving essential for delivering exceptional support and driving innovation in the field of bioinstrumentation.

Essential Duties

Instrumentation Inspection and Troubleshooting:

• Assist with mechanical and electrical inspection and troubleshooting of instrumentation.
• Perform troubleshooting of application protocols and instrumentation.

Maintenance and Repairs:

• Repair, service, and perform preventative maintenance on BioDot instruments.
• Optimize liquid handling performance of instrumentation, including camera systems.

Customer Interaction and Training:

• Interact with customers to train them on instrument operation and maintenance.
• Provide basic and advanced software and hardware training.
• Develop and deliver training materials for BioDot Sales and Applications teams.
• Conduct training of new employees.

Field Service Travel:

• Travel for installation, preventative maintenance, and service of instruments at customer locations and BioDot headquarters.
• Perform installation qualification (IQ), operational qualification (OQ), and guide customers on performance qualification (PQ) at customer locations.
• Participate in trade shows and conferences, including setup, presentation, and lead generation.

Technical Support:

• Respond promptly to online technical support inquiries, including direct interaction with customers via email and phone.
• Independently assist customers in reaching their goals and provide application-specific protocols and training.
• Document application support work and customer visits within the company database or other required formats.
• Contribute to the company knowledge base.

Cross-functional Team Collaboration:

• Work as part of a global support team, interacting daily with design engineers, mechanical and electrical engineers, production personnel, service engineers, and sales team members.
• Participate in Factory and Site Acceptance Testing (FAT/SAT).

Protocol Development:

• Develop application-specific protocols on BioDot products by interpreting procedures provided by customers or the BioDot Sales team.
• Develop protocols for complex automated instrumentation that requires integration with third-party devices.
• Demonstrate advanced programming skills and software functions to control instrumentation.

Innovation and Improvement:

• Contribute innovative ideas to improve workflow and instrumentation.
• Demonstrate out-of-the-box thinking to troubleshoot issues.

Professional Relationships and Conduct:

• Maintain professional relationships with customers and co-workers.
• Understand customer expectations and schedule work accordingly.
• Work independently and make intelligent decisions based on experience and knowledge.
• Assist co-workers in need and contribute to a collaborative work environment.

Reporting and Documentation:

• Report to the manager of the assigned territory.
• Maintain support for existing customers by providing additional application protocols, training, etc.
• Respond to online technical support inquiries, including direct interaction with customers by email and phone.

Additional Duties:

• Participate in sales calls, demos, lectures, and presentations.
• Upselling of services.
• Answer technical questions in a timely manner.
• Perform other work-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education:

• Must have a BA/BS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a similar subject.
• Preferred:
• • Master’s or Doctorate degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a similar subject.
  • Cytogenetic ASCP certification

Technical Skills:

• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills.
• Proficiency in software and hardware related to BioDot instruments.
• Experience with IQ/OQ/PQ processes and documentation.
• Minimum of 2-5 years of experience with analytical instrumentation, laboratory automation, electronics, mechanical engineering, or computers is highly desirable.
• Proficiency with standard laboratory software/interfaces (Microsoft Excel, Word, Vendor Supplied/Custom Developed LIS).

Cytogenetics Experience:

• Must have 1-3 years of Cytogenetics experience performing wet lab and analysis in FISH and Karyotyping.
• Experience in high throughput lab environments is a plus.

Interpersonal Skills:

• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with strong PC skills (Office, Google Docs, database usage, help desk software), and organizational abilities are required.

Additional Skills:

• Strong problem-solving skills and innovative thinking.
• Ability to travel frequently (up to 50%-75%) for field service and training, both domestically and internationally.

The compensation range for this role is $80,000-$100,000.00.