Research Officer - Diagnostic R&D Scientist
About The Position
The National Research Council (NRC) is seeking a hands-on diagnostic R&D scientist to join the Cell Models and Antibody Technology Team within the Medical Devices Research Centre (MD). This role involves deep engagement in laboratory experimentation, assay development, and hands-on testing of diagnostic technologies. The ideal candidate will have expertise in synthetic biology, yeast surface display, and yeast-based biosensor development. The successful candidate will apply advanced yeast engineering and synthetic biology approaches to design, develop, and validate innovative diagnostic technologies for point-of-care (POC) and biomarker detection applications. This position is suited for a scientist who enjoys direct bench work and thrives in multidisciplinary research environments. The role will contribute to the creation of novel biosensor platforms and lateral flow assays using yeast-based systems, synthetic genetic circuits, and advanced molecular design strategies. The position includes assay development, optimization, and validation, with a focus on delivering reproducible, scalable, and clinically relevant results. The scientist will actively support technology transfer, IP generation, and collaborative R&D projects involving NRC teams and external partners from academia and industry.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Synthetic Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on diagnostic assay development and yeast biosensor systems.
- Postdoctoral or equivalent industrial experience emphasizing hands-on laboratory work in diagnostic R&D is required.
- Proven experience in yeast surface display and synthetic biology-based assay development.
- Demonstrated success in engineering yeast biosensors and molecular diagnostic tools for point-of-care applications.
- Demonstrated experience in diagnostic test development, including lateral flow assays, and immunoassays, with a proven ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot complex experimental workflows.
- Experience in antibody and antigen engineering, including discovery, characterization, conjugation chemistry, and reagent formulation for diagnostic assay development.
- Proven track record in biosensor signal detection technologies and analytical validation and performance testing, including sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility, and scalability studies (LoD, LoQ, precision, and linearity).
- Experience applying biosensor and signal detection principles to diagnostic applications, utilizing optical readers, signal detection systems, and fluidics instrumentation.
- Experience working within regulated laboratory environments, with familiarity in ISO 13485, CLIA, FDA, CE-IVD, and Health Canada standards, ensuring compliance with quality and safety requirements.
- Strong proficiency in experimental documentation, data analysis, and technical reporting, with experience managing laboratory operations, maintaining equipment, and contributing to multidisciplinary team-based projects.
Responsibilities
- Conduct and lead laboratory-based experiments for the design, optimization, and validation of diagnostic assays and biosensor platforms, including yeast-based and lateral flow systems.
- Engineer yeast cells for biosensing and surface display applications, integrating synthetic biology circuits for selective molecular recognition and signal transduction.
- Perform hands-on work in assay development, including reagent preparation, conjugation chemistry, sample analysis, and troubleshooting.
- Develop and implement experimental protocols ensuring accuracy, reproducibility, and compliance with quality standards.
- Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to interpret data, identify improvements, and advance projects from concept to prototype.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to NRC’s safety and quality management practices.
- Participate in project management, including experimental planning, documentation, and reporting of technical milestones.
- Engage in knowledge dissemination through technical reports, publications, and presentations at scientific meetings.
- Support technology transfer and commercialization efforts through close collaboration with industry and academic partners.
Benefits
- robust pension plan
- comprehensive health and dental coverage
- disability and life insurance
- office closure at the end of December
- additional supports to enhance your well-being
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
