Scientist I

The Position:

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist I to support the development of next-generation MRD assays from concept through clinical laboratory implementation. This laboratory-based individual contributor will execute and analyze experimental studies supporting assay development, workflow optimization, automation, and validation readiness. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with molecular biology and NGS technologies and is passionate about developing innovative diagnostics in a collaborative, fast-paced product development environment.

Responsibilities:

• Support the development, optimization, verification, and transfer of NGS-based MRD assays under the guidance of senior technical team members from early feasibility through clinical laboratory implementation.
• Execute feasibility, characterization, optimization, and pre-validation studies to support assay and workflow development.
• Procure, qualify, prepare, and characterize clinical and contrived samples for assay development and validation studies.
• Contribute to experimental design, study planning, execution, analysis, and interpretation in collaboration with senior scientists and technical leads.
• Generate high-quality laboratory data and maintain accurate documentation in accordance with design control and quality system requirements.
• Contribute to SOPs, protocols, reports, and other development documentation supporting product development activities.
• Support development and optimization of automated high-throughput laboratory workflows.
• Participate in assay troubleshooting, root-cause investigations, and implementation of technical improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Bioinformatics, Data Science, Operations, Clinical Laboratory, Automation, Quality, Regulatory, and Software/LIMS to advance product development objectives.
• Support technology transfer, assay implementation, and validation activities within the clinical laboratory environment.

Who You Are:

• Strong molecular biologist with hands-on experience in NGS workflows and common NGS quality control methods, such as Tapestation/fragment analysis, fluorescence-based quantification, and qPCR.
• Laboratory scientist who enjoys bench experimentation and can independently execute laboratory activities with a high degree of rigor and attention to detail.
• Skilled in applying molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics principles to experimental design, troubleshooting, and assay optimization.
• Effective problem solver with demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and optimize molecular biology workflows.
• Data-driven scientist capable of analyzing experimental results and communicating findings clearly and effectively.
• Organized and detail-oriented contributor who can manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Strong collaborator who works effectively across multidisciplinary teams and functions.
• Clear and effective communicator with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Flexible and open-minded contributor who adapts well to changing priorities and business needs.
• Passionate about developing diagnostic products that improve outcomes for cancer patients.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant industry and/or postdoctoral experience in molecular diagnostics, biotechnology, genomics, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with NGS-based molecular biology techniques including library preparation and supporting analytical methods.
• Strong understanding of molecular genomic technologies, including DNA- and/or RNA-based assays.
• Experience with experimental design, execution, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Familiarity with statistical analysis and data visualization tools such as JMP, R, Python, or equivalent
• Experience working with clinical sample types, including blood, plasma, tissue, or FFPE specimens, is preferred.
• Exposure to regulated product development environments and quality systems (CAP/CLIA, NYSDOH, design control) is desirable.
• Experience with oncology, liquid biopsy, ctDNA, or MRD technologies is a plus.

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