Technology Research Manager jobs in Minnesota

Zepto Life Technology, Inc. (“Zepto”) is devoted to improving people’s quality of life through the development of point-of-care molecular diagnostics that benefit healthcare providers, patients, and their families by quickly diagnosing diseases.  Zepto has improved the accuracy of molecular diagnostics through using giant magnetic resistance as the sensing technology instead of fluorescence.  

Summary

Zepto Life Technology is seeking a talented and motivated Research Scientist to join our team and contribute to the development of a highly sensitive and multiplexed molecular diagnostics technology platform. The Research Scientist will play a pivotal role in the creation, testing, planning, and reporting of Assay Design. In this role, you will conduct research and development activities, focusing on advancing sensing and assay platforms for molecular diagnostics. You will perform testing on various specimens, develop protocols and quality control manuals, and lead the development and validation of assigned initiatives. This position may have some supervisory responsibilities.

Essential Duties

• Conduct research and development activities to advance sensing and assay platforms, with a focus on molecular diagnostics technologies.
• Perform testing on virology, fungology, mycology, and bacteriology specimens following established laboratory guidelines.
• Conduct material and chemistry analysis, including column extraction, to extract and purify nucleic acids from biological samples.
• Collect and store specimens, and develop procedures and quality control manuals to ensure accurate and reliable testing protocols.
• Lead and facilitate the development and/or validation of assigned initiatives, working closely with the Assay team, Engineering, Software, or applicable resources.
• Perform environmental surveillance (house cultures) in conjunction with infection control measures.
• Evaluate data, prepare technical reports, and deliver scientific presentations to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Demonstrate self-motivation, taking ownership of responsibilities, and contributing to the overall success of the team and company.
• Utilize strong technical writing skills to accurately document research findings and protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field OR Master's degree with 5-7 years of experience.
• 3 years of DNA and RNA extraction experience, including PCR and qRT-PCR.
• Proficiency in material and chemistry analysis for nucleic acid purification.
• Experience in Cancer Assay, bacteria, or virus development.
• Demonstrated industry experience in molecular diagnostics, high throughput biology, assay development, and analytical quantification.
• Ability to perform complex laboratory protocols independently and collaboratively.
• Strong understanding of multi-disciplinary team collaboration and project management.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Extensive experience working with biomarker application programs, including ELISA, flow cytometry, gene expression analysis, microarrays, qPCR, and comparative genomics.
• 3-5 years of demonstrated industry experience related to molecular diagnostics.
• 5 years of hands-on experience in microbiology and molecular biology work.
• 1-2 years of experience in an industrial R&D research laboratory or postdoctoral experience, highlighting familiarity with the research and development process in a professional setting.
• Experience in data analytics, showcasing the ability to interpret and analyze scientific data to extract meaningful insights.

Competencies

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively in a multi-disciplinary team, leveraging diverse expertise to achieve common goals.
• Demonstrated self-motivation and a strong sense of accountability, taking ownership of responsibilities and driving them to successful completion.
• Proficiency in utilizing technology tools and platforms to streamline processes and enhance productivity.
• Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, with a focus on technical writing for accurate and concise documentation.

Work Environment

• This position is based in a research and development biosafety level 2 laboratory, where strict adherence to corporate policies and regulations is required. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• The noise level in the work environment is typical for a laboratory setting.
• There is minimal exposure to Blood-borne Pathogens.
• Exposure to Infectious Diseases is mitigated through the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• The work environment may involve handling cleaning and sanitizing products, as well as various laboratory solutions.

Visa Support

• For qualified applicants, the company can provide support for OPT, CPT, and H1B visa sponsorships.

Job Type

• Full-time, exempt, 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday 9:00am - 5:30pm (half-hour unpaid lunch), onsite.
• Eligible for benefits including holiday time off, paid time off (PTO), sick time off, health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), health savings account (HSA), 401(k), and life insurance.
• Some traveling may be required.

E-Verify

Zepto Life Technology participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program in all facilities located in the United States and certain U.S. territories. The E-Verify program is an Internet-based employment eligibility verification system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Learn more about the E-Verify program.