Molecular Diagnostic Assay Development Scientist
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Job Description
THE OPPORTUNITY: Molecular Diagnostic Assay Development Scientist
LOCATION: Pittsburgh, PA
About Captis Diagnostics:
Captis Diagnostics is a biotechnology Start-up company committed to transforming cancer care through non-invasive technologies. We specialize in leveraging extracellular vesicles (EVs)/exosomes to develop next-generation cancer diagnostic tools for improved patient outcomes.
Position Summary: Captis Diagnostics is seeking a Molecular Diagnostic Assay Development Scientist to lead and support the design, development, and optimization of molecular diagnostic assays. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving innovation in our assay pipeline, with responsibilities spanning from experimental planning to data interpretation. This is a full-time, on-site position based in Pittsburgh, PA, reporting to the Project Lead.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and optimize high-throughput sequencing-based assays (e.g., Illumina, PacBio, Nanopore) to identify clinically relevant genetic changes.
- Lead the development and validation of droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), qPCR, and RT-qPCR assays for sensitive and specific detection of rare genetic changes.
- Analyze, interpret, and present experimental results to cross-functional teams; contribute to technical reports, protocols, and scientific publications.
- Troubleshoot assay performance and implement improvements to enhance sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility.
- Collaborate with team members on R&D initiatives and help translate research findings into clinical assay formats.
- Manage reagent procurement and inventory, maintain organized lab records, and help ensure compliance with internal SOPs and quality standards.
Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field; or M.S. with at least 2–3 years of relevant industry or academic experience.
- Demonstrated experience in molecular diagnostics assay development, particularly PCR and/or sequencing-based methods.
- Hands-on expertise with ddPCR, qPCR, RT-qPCR, and nucleic acid extraction.
- Strong data analysis and troubleshooting skills.
- Experience working in a fast-paced research or product development environment.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and teamwork skills.
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and committed to high-quality scientific work.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with exosome/EV isolation and characterization.
- Familiarity with liquid biopsy technologies and oncology biomarkers.
- Prior involvement in CLIA or CAP-compliant assay development is a plus.
To Apply:
Please submit a cover letter describing your interest in this position and your desired salary range, along with your resume/CV, to Dr. Simon He at simonhe@captisdx.com. Please include "Molecular Diagnostic Assay Development Scientist" in the subject line.
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