Assay Development Scientist / R&D Scientist – Cancer Diagnostics
Job Title: Assay Development Scientist / R&D Scientist – Cancer Diagnostics
Location: Open
Job Type: Full-Time
Department: Research & Development
Reports To: Director of R&D / Head of Assay Development
About OncoFirm Diagnostics
At OncoFirm Diagnostics, we are driven by a mission that’s deeply personal—everyone on our team has been touched by cancer. We’re transforming that shared experience into groundbreaking science by creating rapid diagnostic tests that detect cancer early, when intervention has the greatest chance to save lives. Every test we develop is a step closer to a world where no one is left in the dark.
Position Summary
We are seeking a talented and motivated Assay Development Scientist / R&D Scientist to join our innovative team. You will be responsible for designing, optimizing, and validating lateral flow and immunoassay-based diagnostic tests targeting cancer biomarkers. Your work will directly influence the sensitivity, specificity, and clinical performance of OncoFirm’s point-of-care testing platforms.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop lateral flow immunoassays and ELISA-based diagnostics for cancer antigen detection
- Optimize antibody-antigen interactions, reagent concentrations, membrane materials, and assay buffers
- Conduct analytical validation including specificity, sensitivity, reproducibility, stability, and limit of detection studies
- Troubleshoot assay development challenges and lead product iteration cycles
- Collaborate cross-functionally with molecular biology, biochemistry, quality, and regulatory teams
- Design experiments using statistical methods and document protocols and findings clearly
- Support technology transfer from R&D to manufacturing
- Participate in regulatory submission support by generating required technical documentation
Qualifications
- M.S. or Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related life sciences field
- 3+ years of hands-on experience developing immunoassays, ideally in lateral flow or rapid diagnostic platforms
- Strong understanding of antibody-antigen binding kinetics, assay formats, and signal optimization
- Experience working in a regulated environment (FDA, ISO 13485, CLIA) is a plus
- Familiarity with product development processes and design control principles
- Proficient in data analysis and laboratory documentation
- Creative, problem-solving mindset and collaborative spirit
💼 Salary Range
| Experience Level | Base Salary Range (USD) | Total Comp (with bonuses/equity) |
|---|---|---|
| Early to Mid-Level (2–5 years) | $80,000 – $105,000 | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| Senior-Level (5–10+ years) | $105,000 – $130,000 | $115,000 – $150,000+ |
Note: Compensation may include stock options and performance-based bonuses based on company stage.
Why Join OncoFirm?
- Join a purpose-driven team where your science directly impacts lives
- Work in a fast-growing startup with opportunities to innovate and lead
- Competitive salary, meaningful equity, and a full benefits package
- A collaborative, mission-first culture grounded in compassion and scientific excellence
OncoFirm Diagnostics is a performance-based employer. We celebrate talent by hiring only the best and are committed to creating a stress-free environment for all employees.
