Scientist II
Position Title: Scientist II Work Location: Pleasanton, CA, 94588 Assignment Duration: 12 Months Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, normal business hours Work Arrangement: Onsite Position Summary : The Scientist II will perform hands-on molecular laboratory work to support the design, optimization, and development of qPCR and digital PCR (dPCR) assays for the organization’s advanced molecular platforms. This role is classified as laboratory-based, requiring routine work with chemical reagents and human biological materials in a BSL-2 environment. Key Responsibilities : • Perform hands-on qPCR and digital PCR assay development, including primer/probe design, assay optimization, and troubleshooting. • Execute experiments supporting feasibility, verification, and validation phases of molecular diagnostic assay development. • Conduct nucleic acid extraction from human sample types (e.g., FFPE, plasma) using standard and automated workflows. • Develop and optimize assay conditions using DOE approaches and analyze data using statistical software (e.g., R, JMP). • Maintain compliant, accurate laboratory documentation in an Electronic Laboratory Notebook (ELN). • Prepare technical summaries, reports, and presentations for cross-functional project teams. • Follow all our organization safety, quality, and compliance practices, including proper handling of biological materials. • Author or update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and study protocols as required. Qualification & Experience : • Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related field with 5 years of relevant laboratory industry experience • Demonstrated, hands-on experience with qPCR assay development (required). • Proficiency with digital PCR (dPCR) platforms (e.g., Bio-Rad, Qiagen). • Extensive knowledge of nucleic acid extraction, quantification, and quality assessment. • Experience interpreting complex datasets using statistical tools and DOE methods. • Strong documentation and communication skills in a regulated R&D environment. • Experience supporting oncology, infectious disease, or genomics-based assay development. • Experience working under IVD design control, ISO 13485, or other regulated product development frameworks. • Familiarity with automation systems, LIMS, ELN systems, or high-throughput workflows. Working Conditions & Physical Demands : The following reflect the physical and environmental expectations of this role: • Ability to stand or sit for extended periods while performing laboratory duties. • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., reagent boxes, equipment). • Manual dexterity required for pipetting and handling small laboratory components. • Work involves exposure to chemical reagents and human biological samples in a BSL-2 environment. • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, and safety glasses must be worn as required. Additional Information : These responsibilities support the role but are not essential functions: • Participation in cross-functional meetings beyond defined project deliverables. • Assisting with lab inventory, supply management, or general lab upkeep. Key Responsibilities : • Perform hands-on qPCR and digital PCR assay development, including primer/probe design, assay optimization, and troubleshooting. • Execute experiments supporting feasibility, verification, and validation phases of molecular diagnostic assay development. • Conduct nucleic acid extraction from human sample types (e.g., FFPE, plasma) using standard and automated workflows. • Develop and optimize assay conditions using DOE approaches and analyze data using statistical software (e.g., R, JMP). • Maintain compliant, accurate laboratory documentation in an Electronic Laboratory Notebook (ELN). • Prepare technical summaries, reports, and presentations for cross-functional project teams. • Follow all our organization safety, quality, and compliance practices, including proper handling of biological materials. • Author or update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and study protocols as required.