Research Scientist - MCED Assay Development

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Position Overview

The Research Scientist works both independently and collaboratively on multiple assay development projects, taking an active role in planning projects and experiments and often serving as the technical lead responsible for successful execution. The position requires making detailed observations, analyzing data, and interpreting results to solve complex scientific problems, translating research ideas and concepts into the product development pipeline towards development of oncology diagnostic assay products.

Essential Duties

Include but are not limited to the following:

• Work on complex scientific problems that require strong analytical thinking and creative problem solving.

• Independently design, execute, and analyze bench-level experiments, operating and maintaining relevant scientific instrumentation and escalating issues as needed.

• Apply and optimize existing methods and technologies while proposing and evaluating new experimental approaches.

• Exercise sound judgment within established practices and policies to select methods, interpret data, and drive to clear, actionable conclusions.

• Maintain accurate, complete, and compliant laboratory documentation in accordance with legal, ISO, and QSR requirements.

• Contribute scientific insight to project planning and experimental design, generating and communicating development plans for key project components.

• Prepare clear reports and presentations of results, conclusions, and next steps for technical teams and project stakeholders.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional project teams to achieve departmental and project objectives.

Skills and Competencies

• Ability to identify complex scientific or technical problems and drive them to effective solutions.

• Ability to organize, present, and clearly convey moderate issues and technical problems to a range of audiences.

• Strong collaboration skills across team, department, and cross-functional partners.

• Ability to effectively work on several varied projects at one time, with frequently changing priorities.

• Commitment to upholding company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.

• Ability to support and comply with the company's Quality Management System policies and procedures.

• Regular and reliable attendance.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds for approximately 5% of a typical working day.

• Ability to work at a computer or mobile device and perform typing for approximately 50% of a typical working day.

• Ability to perform fine and gross motor tasks, including grasping, pinching, turning with hand/arm, and reaching above shoulder height.

• Ability to use various types of laboratory equipment for extended periods of time.

• Ability to use near vision to view samples and other materials at close range.

• Ability to comply with all applicable personal protective equipment requirements.

Work Environment and Travel

• May be exposed to hazardous materials, tissue specimens, and instruments with moving parts, lasers, heating and freezing elements, and high-speed centrifugation.

• Ability and means to travel between local Exact Sciences locations as needed.

• Ability to travel up to 5% of working time away from the primary work location, which may include overnight and weekend travel.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in life sciences, medical technology, clinical laboratory science, chemical/physical/biological science, or related field; or Master's degree in life sciences, medical technology, clinical laboratory science, chemical/physical/biological science, or related field and 4 years of related experience in lieu of a PhD; or Bachelor's degree in life sciences, medical technology, clinical laboratory science, chemical/physical/biological science, or related field and 6 years of related experience in lieu of PhD.
• 1+ years of experience in medical device/IVD, biotech, life science, or pharmaceutical industry.
• Demonstrated ability to apply molecular biology and/or biochemical techniques.
• Demonstrated understanding of GMP, ISO, and Quality Systems.
• Good knowledge of molecular biology and/or biochemistry and/or next-generation sequencing (NGS) and genomics.
• Basic knowledge of statistical and mathematical methods in biology/genetics/genomics; including experience with statistical software, such as JMP
• Proficient computer skills to include Internet navigation, Email usage, and word processing.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office to include Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the Essential Duties of the position with or without accommodation.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD

• 2+ years of experience in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry, preferably in molecular diagnostics.

• Experience with the development of DNA detection assays.

• Experience with data analysis using R or Python.

Salary Range:

$100,000 - $150,000

Exact Sciences is proud to offer an employee experience that includes paid time off (including days for vacation, holidays, volunteering, and personal time), paid leave for parents and caregivers, a retirement savings plan, wellness support, and health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage. Learn more about our benefits.

Our success relies on the experiences and perspectives of a diverse team, and Exact Sciences fosters a culture where all employees can develop personally and professionally with a sense of respect and belonging. If you require an accommodation, please contact us here.

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We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, protected veteran status, and any other status protected by applicable local, state, or federal law.

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