Molecular Diagnostics Engineer - POC Technologies
Molecular Diagnostics Engineer - Point-of-Care Technologies
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and Optimize Isothermal Amplification Technologies
- Design, implement, and validate novel isothermal DNA amplification methods
- Troubleshoot technical challenges in amplification efficiency and stability
- Engineer and Modify Enzymes for Diagnostic Applications
- Create customized enzyme variants with improved performance characteristics
- Establish robust protocols for enzyme production and quality control
- Design Advanced Molecular Detection Systems
- Create innovative signal amplification and detection strategies
- Integrate amplification chemistry with detection modalities
- Translate Laboratory Protocols to Point-of-Care Formats
- Adapt complex molecular methods to simplified, field-deployable formats
- Balance technical performance with usability requirements
- Lead Technical Innovation and Validation
- Direct research efforts to address critical performance challenges
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate technologies into product platforms
Experience:
- Advanced Expertise in Isothermal Amplification Technologies
- Demonstrated experience developing or optimizing isothermal amplification methods (LAMP, RPA, HDA, etc.)
- Hands-on experience troubleshooting complex molecular diagnostic challenges
- Enzyme Engineering and Characterization
- Experience modifying DNA/RNA polymerases or other enzymes for improved performance
- Demonstrable understanding of enzyme kinetics and biochemical optimization
- Background in protein engineering or directed evolution methodologies
- Point-of-Care Diagnostic Development
- Knowledge of sample preparation challenges and solutions for complex biological matrices
- Understanding of regulatory considerations for diagnostic development
- Single-Molecule Detection Methods
- Familiarity with nanopore technologies, fluorescence-based detection, or other single-molecule approaches
- Experience integrating molecular amplification with detection modalities
- Background in signal optimization and noise reduction strategies
Qualifications:
- PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or related field
- Strong academic foundation in nucleic acid biochemistry and molecular diagnostics
- Research experience relevant to isothermal amplification technologies
- Proven expertise in enzyme manipulation and optimization
- Demonstrated ability to modify and enhance enzyme performance for specific applications
- Understanding of structure-function relationships in nucleic acid processing enzymes
- Publication record in molecular diagnostics or related fields
- First-author publications demonstrating technical innovation
- Evidence of contribution to advancement of diagnostic technologies
- Laboratory proficiency with advanced molecular techniques
- Mastery of nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection methodologies
- Hands-on skill with relevant analytical instruments and techniques
- Collaborative mindset with strong communication skills
- Ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams
- Experience translating complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
- Track record of successful cross-functional project contributions
Additional Points:
-- This is a full-time position with the potential title of Scientist, Senior Scientist, or Principal Scientist and the title is commensurate with experience and expertise.
-- This role is based in Maryland, with a comprehensive relocation package available.