Scientist II (Molecular Diagnostics), DxD Hub

Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization in Queenstown is seeking a motivated scientist to develop innovative molecular diagnostic products. The role involves workflow development, mentoring junior staff, and managing lab operations. Candidates should have 3-5 years in molecular assay development, solid knowledge of regulatory standards, and excellent presentation skills. This is a full-time position that offers opportunities for continuous learning in a rapidly evolving field.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of hands-on experience in molecular assay development.
• Familiarity with regulatory and quality standards for diagnostic assay development.
• Ability to articulate complex matters and simplify them.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of innovative workflows for clinical applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and coach for the latest technology.
• Manage lab operations activities and maintain timelines.

Skills

Molecular assay development

Laboratory techniques

Experimental design

Regulatory knowledge

Presentation skills

Education

Education in Molecular Biology or related field

Job description

Overview

Agency for Science, Technology and Research – Queenstown

Seeking a highly motivated scientist to join the Molecular Diagnostics team, focused on developing regulated diagnostic products and services, especially in genetic testing, and based on molecular approaches such as but not limited to next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based and nucleic acid amplification-based diagnostic assays.

The successful candidate will lead the development of innovative workflows for clinical applications and work closely with clinical and commercial stakeholders to deliver successful and impactful solutions.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for good record-keeping and standard operating procedures (SOPs) implementation in accordance with confidential information requirement, quality system and regulatory guidelines.
• Responsible for mentoring junior scientists and coaching for the latest technology development and product landscape.
• Responsible for prompt support and communication with internal and external collaborators.
• Responsible for assay planning and execution.
• Responsible for presenting progress, findings, and providing solutions to internal and external stakeholders.
• Responsible for troubleshooting and keeping technical development timeline.
• Contribute to project scoping and preparing project proposals with in-depth understanding in clinical workflow, clinical unmet needs, technology value proposition, economic value capture, clinical deployment, and product commercialization pathway.
• Contribute to product landscape study on safety dossier and technical note approved by regulators.
• Contribute to clinical study design and clinical trial in regulated diagnostic product settings.
• Manage and perform lab operations activities, including general laboratory and equipment housekeeping and qualifications, and consumables purchasing.

Qualifications

• Education in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genomics, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of hands-on experience in molecular assay development, preferably in industrial, diagnostics or clinical laboratory setting.
• Laboratory track record and skills in pre-analytical and analytical techniques, including extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in molecular techniques.
• Strong track record in experimental design and optimisation of laboratory workflows.
• Familiarity with regulatory and quality standards for diagnostic assay development e.g. ISO13485.
• Ability to multi-task, while maintaining prompt response.
• Ability to articulate complex matters and simplify the matters.
• Great presentation skills for a mixed audience.
• Strong in identifying critical pathways and demonstrate problem-solving abilities.
• Solid academic knowledge and a critical and innovative mindset.
• Extensive industrial relation and understanding of product landscapes.
• Optimistic and enthusiastic about continuous learning and professional development in the rapidly evolving field.
• A strong team player with a proactive and upbeat attitude.