Senior Scientist

Responsibilities

• Lead exploratory and feasibility studies for RNA extraction across diverse biological sample types.
• Develop, optimize, and automate molecular biology workflows, including RNA sequencing and DNA metagenomics library preparation.
• Translate manual laboratory protocols into robust, scalable automated workflows.
• Design and lead analytical validation studies to assess performance characteristics of automated NGS assays (e.g., sensitivity, specificity, limit of detection).
• Evaluate and verify automated liquid handling systems against defined performance specifications.
• Troubleshoot assay and instrumentation interactions, partnering with engineering and software teams to resolve issues.
• Establish quality control metrics and acceptance criteria for reagents, processes, and automated runs.
• Ensure laboratory activities align with applicable regulatory and quality standards.
• Author and review technical documentation such as SOPs, validation plans and reports, and design history documentation.
• Supervise and mentor junior laboratory staff, supporting day-to-day operations and professional development.
• Manage wet-lab project timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.
• Act as the primary biological subject matter expert in cross-functional and external collaborations.
• Present experimental data and technical updates to internal stakeholders.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline with 3 years of industry experience, or MS with 7 years of relevant experience.
• Experience working in regulated laboratory environments (e.g., ISO 13485, FDA QSR, CLIA); familiarity with IVDR requirements preferred.
• Strong technical expertise in RNA metagenomics, molecular diagnostics, PCR/qPCR, viral RNA extraction, and sample preparation.
• Demonstrated experience leading or mentoring junior scientists or small technical teams.
• Hands-on experience with automated liquid handling platforms (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, Beckman, Opentrons) strongly preferred.
• Solid understanding of next-generation sequencing workflows and automation strategies.
• Background in assay development for pathogen detection and characterization (viral, bacterial, or fungal) preferred