R&D Scientist – Aptamer Assay Development

Genepika is dedicated to advancing genetics-related research, engineering, and product development. Innovations in the field of molecular biology over recent decades have revolutionized the capabilities of genetic tools available to researchers. Applications such as gene editing and drug discovery have extensively explored the potential of oligonucleotide technology for advancing healthcare. One promising application for genetic technology is the development of novel diagnostic tools, significantly accelerated by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The widespread authorizations of point-of-care (POC) diagnostic platforms have demonstratedtheir importance in resource-scarce settings and in streamlining clinical services. Clinical data shows that early detection of health conditions via POC devices can greatly improve success rates of treatments, despite these devices having lower sensitivity and accuracy compared to traditional laboratory diagnostics. Although scaled manufacturing of complex POC diagnostic devices remains challenging, there is an opportunity to develop more scalable molecular platforms to increase public access to these technologies.

At Genepika, we believe it is crucial to improve public access and, more importantly, understanding of these affordable molecular technologies and their capabilities. Therefore, we are committed to building a new generation of molecular diagnostic devices for consumer applications, bringing the benefits of rapid diagnostics to everyday life. We are seeking an R&D Scientist with extensive experience in developing aptamer diagnostic biosensors to join our growing team. As an R&D Scientist, you will be responsible fordeveloping protocols for aptamer-nanoparticle conjugation and adopting the assay onto a lateral flow format. The role will focus on developing novel diagnostic technology, optimizing assay reagents, and findingstrategies to achieve the desired product performance metrics. The Scientist will also be working with other team members on the commercialization of diagnostic technology.

Required Qualifications

• MUST have MSc with additional 3+ years of relevant work experience, or PhD with relevant thesis topics in aptamer biosensors and diagnostic technology

• MUST have experience working with bioconjugation of aptamer to various nanoparticles and surface materials

• Ideal to have hands-on experience with lateral flow diagnostic assay development and optimization, particularly in industrial settings

• Understanding of biochemistry behind different modalities for diagnostic signal output such as colorimetric or fluorescence

• Understanding of quality control practices and GMP biomanufacturing processes for diagnostic products

• Able to design and conduct experiments to meet development objectives with minimal supervision

• Demonstrated excellence in data analysis and research communication through academic publication records and conference presentations

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous commercialization experiences with diagnostic assays

• Previous experience optimizing reagent buffer for consistency

• Previous experience working with complex sample matrices

• Working knowledge of industrial-scale nucleic acid product production

• Working knowledge of microfluidic principles and lateral flow devices

• Familiar with laboratory equipment calibration

• Familiar with regulatory requirements of diagnostic devices

• Familiar with ISO13485 standards

Other Requirements

• This is a full-time, in-person position; candidates must be able to commute to the lab location in the GTA (York University)

• Candidates must be able to adapt quickly to changing priorities in a startup environment

Thank you for your interest in Genepika, however at this point only candidates who satisfy the Required Qualifications will be considered.