Supervisor, R&D

Abbott • La Jolla, CA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Supervisor, R&D works with limited guidance from more experienced scientists on multiple projects of moderate to complex scope. The role participates actively in project and experiment planning and often serves as the technical lead responsible for successful project execution. It involves making detailed observations, analyzing data, interpreting results, and translating research ideas into the product development pipeline for diagnostic assay products.

The position leads a small team of junior Research Associates by setting clear and realistic goals, removing barriers, supporting development, and fostering collaboration. The Supervisor conducts and plans laboratory experiments, applies scientific methods and technologies, prepares technical documentation, evaluates data and process trends, and communicates findings to project and technical teams. The role also supervises staff and supports Abbott's mission, values, and Quality Management System.

Requirements

• PhD in life sciences, medical technology, clinical laboratory science, chemical, physical, biological science, or a related field; alternatively, a relevant master's degree and 4 years of related experience, or a relevant bachelor's degree and 6 years of experience related to the job duties.
• At least 1 year of experience in the 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.
• Demonstrated technical proficiency, scientific knowledge, and creativity.
• Good knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry, and/or next-generation sequencing (NGS) and genomics.
• Basic knowledge of statistical and mathematical methods in biology, genetics, or genomics, including experience with statistical software such as JMP.
• Proficient computer skills, including internet navigation, email, word processing, and Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the essential duties with or without accommodation.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Ability to work nights and/or weekends.
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds for approximately 5% of a typical working day.
• Ability to use a mobile device, tablet, or computer and/or type for approximately 50% of a typical working day.
• Ability to grasp with both hands, pinch with thumb and forefinger, turn with hand or arm, and reach above shoulder height.
• Ability to comply with applicable personal protective equipment requirements.
• Ability to use laboratory equipment, including microscopes, microtomes, blades, strainers, and pipettes, for extended periods; may perform repetitive actions using lab tools.
• Ability to use near vision to view samples at close range.
• Ability and means to travel between Exact Sciences locations and travel 5% of working time away from the work location, potentially including overnight or weekend travel.

Nice To Haves

• At least 1 year of experience leading or directing people and/or project teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to a small team of junior Research Associates.
• Conduct, plan, and analyze bench-level experiments across product or technology areas; identify problems and discrepancies.
• Operate scientific instrumentation and notify appropriate personnel of problems.
• Apply methods and technologies effectively and propose new techniques when appropriate.
• Maintain knowledge of relevant industry and technology developments.
• Provide technical input and participate in project planning and experimental design decisions.
• Prepare and provide information and data for scientific abstracts, conferences, project meetings, and publications.
• Generate, document, and communicate development plans for critical project aspects.
• Participate in developing research plans and experimental outlines, write protocols, and perform laboratory experiments.
• Prepare technical procedures, protocols, reports, and documentation that analyze or summarize experimental results, outcomes, and next steps.
• Evaluate the impact of nonconforming data on products or processes and identify trends in study data.
• Prepare and approve written reports.
• Lead identification of process improvement opportunities.
• Maintain clear, complete, and consistent laboratory notebooks in accordance with legal, ISO, and QSR requirements.
• Present experimental results, defend scientific ideas and findings, and provide technical input at data, group, project, and departmental meetings.
• Supervise staff, including organizing and prioritizing work, conducting performance reviews, training and development, and managing work performance.
• Communicate goals and employees' roles in achieving them; coach and motivate employees, maintain morale, and support engagement initiatives.
• Collaborate with others while exercising independent thought and providing and defending scientific insights.
• Support and comply with company Quality Management System policies and procedures, and uphold company mission and values.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Travel between Exact Sciences locations as needed and travel approximately 5% of working time, potentially including overnight or weekend travel.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree