Scientist-Lateral Flow Assay

Job Title: Lateral Flow Assay (Scientist)

Location: Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh, India

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Scientist with deep, hands-on expertise in Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) development to join the R&D team. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving the design, optimization, and validation of novel LFA products from concept through to commercialization. This role requires a strong analytical mindset, exceptional problem-solving skills, and a genuine passion for pushing the boundaries of rapid diagnostics.

Key Responsibilities:

• LFA Development & Optimization: Lead the design and execution of experiments for all stages of LFA development, including reagent selection, nanoparticle conjugation (especially gold nanoparticles), conjugate pad preparation, membrane selection, and strip assembly.
• Performance Enhancement: Systematically optimize LFA performance parameters (sensitivity, specificity, robustness, stability, flow characteristics) to meet stringent product requirements.
• Advanced Troubleshooting: Act as a primary technical expert for diagnosing and resolving complex LFA performance issues such as inconsistent signal, high background, poor flow, and long-term stability challenges (e.g., conjugate degradation, batch variability).
• Component Characterization: Conduct thorough characterization of critical LFA raw materials (nanoparticles, antibodies, membranes, pads) and in-process intermediates to ensure quality and performance.
• QC & Validation: Develop and implement robust quality control methods for LFA components and finished devices. Contribute significantly to analytical validation studies (LoD, LoQ, specificity, stability, reproducibility).
• Data Analysis & Documentation: Design rigorous experiments (including DoE), analyze complex data using statistical tools, and maintain meticulous laboratory records and documentation.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with manufacturing, quality assurance, and regulatory teams to facilitate seamless design transfer and scale-up of LFA products.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Master’s or Ph.D. in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Analytical Chemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Experience: Minimum of 2–3+ years of hands-on, direct LFA development experience in academia, IVD, or the medical device industry.
• Technical Expertise:
• Demonstrated proficiency in all aspects of LFA development from conception to validation.
• Expert-level hands-on experience with nanoparticle bioconjugation, particularly gold nanoparticles, including nanoparticle fabrication, characterization, and stability assessment.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex LFA performance issues (e.g., low signal, high background, flow inconsistencies, long-term stability).
• Strong understanding of various LFA materials (nitrocellulose membranes, conjugate pads, sample pads) and their impact on assay performance.
• Proficiency in experimental design (DoE) and statistical analysis for LFA optimization.
• Experience with LFA manufacturing considerations and process scale-up.
• Analytical Skills: Highly analytical, logical, with strong problem-solving aptitude and meticulous attention to detail.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to present complex scientific data clearly and concisely.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing LFAs for whole blood samples, including on-board buffer integration.
• Familiarity with regulatory guidelines relevant to IVD product development (e.g., ISO 13485).
• Experience with advanced analytical techniques for characterizing nanoparticles (e.g., DLS, Zeta Potential, TEM, UV-Vis Spectroscopy).

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ₹1,000,000.00 - ₹1,800,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person