Principal Scientist, Sample Preparation & Automation

BioTalent is supporting a high growth biotechnology company developing a next-generation molecular diagnostics platform and is seeking a scientist to lead the development of automated sample preparation workflows for pathogen detection from whole blood.

This is a highly visible role focused on one of the most challenging aspects of molecular diagnostics: efficiently processing whole blood samples and enriching rare microbial targets for downstream detection. You'll take ownership of developing and optimizing workflows that transform complex clinical samples into purified genomic DNA while helping integrate those processes into an automated instrument platform.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead development of sample preparation workflows from whole blood through purified genomic DNA
• Design and optimize methods to selectively remove bacterial and fungal components while enriching target pathogens
• Evaluate, implement, and improve nucleic acid extraction and purification technologies
• Drive automation of sample preparation processes for integration into a novel diagnostic instrument
• Partner closely with assay development, engineering, and systems teams to ensure end-to-end performance
• Support transfer of workflows from R&D to scalable product development

Requirements

• MS or PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Microbiology, or a related discipline
• Experience developing sample preparation, nucleic acid extraction, or molecular diagnostic workflows
• Strong understanding of processing complex biological samples, particularly blood-based specimens
• Hands-on experience with automation platforms, liquid handling systems, or integrated diagnostic technologies
• Track record of solving challenging sample preparation and workflow development problems in a biotech, diagnostics, or life sciences environment
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, highly collaborative R&D setting

This is an opportunity to solve a critical technical challenge and play a key role in bringing breakthrough diagnostic technology from concept to commercialization.

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