Principal Scientist - Lateral Flow Assay

ManpowerGroup Middle East; Dubai; On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company specializing in diagnostics is seeking a highly skilled lateral flow assay (LFA) development scientist to lead the design, development, and validation of novel in-vitro diagnostic assays. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in assay methodologies and a strong background in optimizing assays for superior performance. This role involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to advance innovative diagnostic solutions that positively impact patient outcomes.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years industry experience in lateral flow assay or in-vitro diagnostic development.
• Expertise in assay design and biomarker methods.
• Strong laboratory and troubleshooting skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and validation of novel lateral flow assays.
• Design, optimize, and scale up LFA systems.
• Troubleshoot and refine assay development processes.

Skills

Assay sensitivity

Assay specificity

Assay reproducibility

Protein detection methods

Antibody conjugation

Protein purification

Statistical analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in biotechnology

PhD in biochemistry

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated lateral flow assay (LFA) development scientist to lead the design, development, and validation of novel in-vitro diagnostic assays.

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in assay sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility, with a strong background in assay optimization and scale-up. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the seamless transition of assay designs from R&D to production, and contribute to advancing diagnostic solutions that improve patient outcomes.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the development and validation of novel lateral flow assays focusing on assay sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility.
• Design, optimize, and scale up LFA systems, integrating critical assay components and control systems to ensure robust performance.
• Troubleshoot and refine assay development processes to meet regulatory standards and address key performance parameters.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, software, sourcing) to facilitate smooth technology transfer from R&D to production.
• Identify and work with external vendors for material sourcing, assay customization, and large-scale manufacturing.
• Conduct comprehensive system and subsystem performance evaluations using clinical samples in both lab and field environments.
• Maintain meticulous records of experimental protocols, data analyses, and interpretations in line with best lab practices.
• Drive strategic collaborations for acquiring and validating clinical samples such as blood, urine, and serum.

Required qualifications:

• Master's or PhD in biotechnology, biochemistry, or related life sciences field.
• Minimum 5 years industry experience in lateral flow assay or in-vitro diagnostic product development.
• Expertise in lateral flow assay design, protein detection methods (ELISA, immunochemistry), and experience with biomarkers or bioassays.
• Strong laboratory skills including antibody conjugation, protein purification, and assay troubleshooting.
• Proven ability to identify and overcome technical challenges related to assay performance and scalability.

Preferred skills:

• Demonstrated leadership in LFA development, with experience in clinical diagnostics and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis tools such as Excel, R, or equivalents for data interpretation.
• Strong project management skills and experience working collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly document complex protocols and present results effectively.