Job: R&D Specialist

Requisition Number 09-0873
Post Date 9/22/2009
Title R&D Specialist
City Salt Lake City
State UT

GENERAL FUNCTION:


This individual will research, organize and implement new assays as well as improve current testing under the direction of the Medical Director. This position is more senior than the Technologist position and can function will less formal direction.


REPORTING FUNCTION:


This individual reports to the Group Manager of R & D for administrative responsibilities and the relevant Medical Director for technical direction.. Both Group Manager and Medical Director are responsible for professional development. This position also receives oversight and mentoring from the Senior Scientist of the relevant group.


REPRESENTATIVE ACTIVITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES:


1. Development of new assays with Medical Director review (less supervision than Technologist):

a) Select methods and reagents for assays not currently offered by the section.

b) Assess performance characteristics of new methods.

c) Develop Quality Control systems for new test methods.

d) Write technical procedures and supply cost accounting for new methods.

e) Develop training program for implementation of new methods into the department.


2. Improving existing assays:

a) Develop modifications for current procedures in order to improve cost and/or labor efficiency.


3. Academic Activities:

a) This position requires formal presentations of research results at regular lab meetings, ARUP seminars and professional meetings.

b) The position requires organizing data, drawing conclusions and assembling those in written format for publication in peer reviewed journals. The position requires submission of at least one peer-reviewed manuscript as a lead author each year.


The ideal skill set for this position would include some experience with laboratory coagulation testing, as well as general knowledge of laboratory test development and validation. Other desirable qualities include strong interpersonal and communication skills, strong computer skills, organizational and writing skills, and an interest in presenting findings at local and national meetings.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:


Education/Credentials

BS Biochemistry or related life science

MS preferred


Experience

There is a minimum requirement of 18 months experience at ARUP or three years in R & D outside of ARUP. However, advanced academic training or comparable experience in a clinical lab setting will be considered. Promotion within ARUP requires time a position plus at least two formal ARUP research presentations. Additionally, there must be at least two formal presentations at professional meetings outside or ARUP and one published paper in a peer reviewed journals as co-author as well as positive performance reviews. Candidates hired outside of ARUP must have a demonstrated history in academic productivity that would include at least five abstract/poster presentations at professional meetings or two publications as lead author in peer reviewed journals.


Experience in development, optimization, and/or validation of test systems required. Must possess effective verbal and written communication skills. Must have good organizational skills as well as reading and comprehension skills required to reference, interpret and implement all applicable test systems. Must be familiar with current regulatory requirements concerning test validation of clinical assays. Must have the dexterity required to perform laboratory testing. Familiarity with spread sheet and word processing programs is required.



Physical

Must have the physical, cognitive and mental abilities to accomplish skills listed above.