Innovation Works
Molecular Diagnostic Assay Development Scientist
Innovation Works, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States, 15201
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 23 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.
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 23 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.