Research Scientist

The science team at Vital is seeking a passionate and creative scientist to fill the role of Research  Scientist (level depending on experience, see below). We’re looking for a teammate proficient in the planning and execution of experiments, maintaining equipment, preparing high-quality reagents, and performing various biochemistry laboratory techniques.

As a Research Scientist at Vital, you will be working to develop and validate our next-generation diagnostic assays, supporting your team to achieve ambitious goals.

We are constantly optimizing our lab to help push science forward at unprecedented rates. In this role, you will be working in a fast-paced lab environment involving substantial bench work to troubleshoot and optimize our next-generation diagnostic assays. You will be expected and encouraged to actively contribute to our product development direction, and present novel procedural and scientific concepts that will positively impact all aspects of Vital’s operations.

What you’ll be doing:

• Help optimize new technology for Vital’s diagnostic product 

• Be a part of the Research and Development team responsible for development and commercialization of immunoassays for protein and small molecule detection system, helping the scientific team develop and achieve goals to meet ambitious deadlines

• Design and conceptualize experiments independently as well as in collaboration with your Senior Scientist mentor and the rest of the scientific team

• Perform a variety of experiments, including but not limited to antibody screening, bio-conjugations of nano-particles with antibodies and antigens, reagent formulation, SDS-PAGE / Western Blotting, etc.

• Meticulously execute experiments and document data; maintain updated laboratory records 

• Conduct experiments on a variety of instrumentation (e.g. automatic liquid handler systems, plate reader, etc) and assist in the maintenance of equipment

• Quantitatively analyze and communicate results to fellow scientists and non-science stakeholders

• Analyze clinical samples for assay verification and validation in compliance with FDA regulations

• Identify, troubleshoot and resolve problems in collaboration with interdisciplinary teams

• Tap into various resources to support experimental design and daily planning

• Transfer methods to other internal or external partners and support collaborations through defensible result production and QC procedures

• Be actively involved in laboratory management, including inventory management and supply chain responsibilities, maintenance of stocks of chemical reagents from established suppliers as well as identify new suppliers of materials and reagents to help optimize quality and cost

• Communicate effectively with peers and leadership to support decision-making, including writing protocols and summarizing results in reports and presentations

• Contribute to departmental strategies and provide input on lab requirements and improvements

• Manage multiple tasks and changing priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Construct, modify, and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) in direct collaboration with the Research and Development teams

• Manage multiple tasks and changing priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Work in a multi-disciplinary team with biochemists, chemists, microfluidics engineers, etc. in order to bridge gaps and develop top-notch diagnostic products.

• Additional duties and responsibilities as required

What you’ll need:

• Scientist level will depend on degree of experience:

  • Associate Scientist: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, bioengineering, or related field with 2+ years of experience

  • Scientist I - III: Bachelors or Masters Degree with 3+ years of laboratory experience or a PhD ranging from 0-5 years of postdoctoral experience (industry experience a plus)

• Direct, hands-on research laboratory experience in a relevant field

• Competency in biochemistry and chemistry, with working knowledge of immunoassay concepts and applications

• Ability to communicate results and concepts clearly and effectively

• Clear planning of day-to-day experiments with meticulous organization and documentation

• Ability to multitask, handle frequently changing job functions, and rapidly learn new techniques and approaches

Bonus points for:

• Previous experience with immunoassay design and development and/or nanoparticles

• Ability to write and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs)

• Good verbal and written communication skills

• Prior experience working in a fast-paced, start-up environment

• Appreciation of puns