PRINCIPAL SCIENTIST

Lucid Diagnostics

Lake Forest CA 92630 US

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Job Type : Full Time

Date Posted : September 05, 2024

Posted : posted 11 days ago


Title: Principal Scientist Early Cancer Detection


Location: LucidDx Labs, 14 Orchard Rd, Lake Forest, CA


Department: Research & Development


Reports to: Chief Scientific Officer


Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent




About Us:


Lucid Diagnostics Inc. (Nasdaq:LUCD) is a commercial-stage, cancer prevention diagnostics company and a subsidiary of PAVmed Inc. (Nasdaq: PAVM). We focus on the early detection and prevention of esophageal cancer, particularly in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), who are at risk of developing esophageal precancer and cancer. Our flagship products, the EsoGuard® Esophageal DNA Test and the EsoCheck® Esophageal Cell Collection Device, are the first and only tools designed to prevent cancer and cancer deaths through early detection of esophageal precancer.




Job Summary:


We are seeking a highly skilled Principal Scientist to lead the development of molecular diagnostic biomarker tests for early cancer detection. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in molecular biology, genetics, and cancer biology, with a proven track record of driving R&D projects from concept to clinical application. This role requires a creative scientist who can collaborate across multidisciplinary teams, mentor junior scientists, and contribute to the strategic direction of our programs. Strong oral and written communication skills are essential for conveying complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.




Key Responsibilities:



  • Research & Development:




  • Lead the design, development, and optimization of genetic molecular diagnostic assays for early cancer detection, including biomarker discovery, assay validation, and clinical performance evaluation.

  • Develop innovative approaches to enhance the sensitivity, specificity, and robustness of diagnostic tests, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements.

  • Conduct and oversee experiments to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of new molecular diagnostic technologies.




  • Project Management:




  • Manage multiple R&D projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion of milestones and objectives.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including bioinformatics, clinical lab, clinical research, quality & regulatory affairs, and product development to advance diagnostic test development from bench to bedside.

  • Prepare and present detailed project plans, reports, and scientific publications to internal and external stakeholders.




  • Team Leadership:




  • Mentor and provide scientific guidance to junior scientists and research associates, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.

  • Stay abreast of the latest scientific and technological advancements in cancer diagnostics and molecular biology and integrate new knowledge into ongoing projects.

  • Communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and effectively through oral presentations and written reports.




  • Regulatory & Compliance:




  • Ensure that all research activities comply with relevant regulatory standards, including CLIA, CAP, and FDA guidelines for diagnostic test development.

  • Write Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), validation plans and reports as per regulatory standards.

  • Contribute to the preparation of regulatory submissions, including material for FDA meetings and premarket approval (PMA) submissions.




  • Strategic Contribution:




  • Participate in the strategic planning of the company's diagnostic product pipeline, providing insights into emerging trends and potential opportunities in the field of cancer diagnostics.

  • Engage with key opinion leaders (KOLs), collaborators, and industry partners to establish and maintain strong scientific networks.



Qualifications:



  • Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cancer Biology, or a related field.

  • A minimum of 7-10 years of postdoctoral experience in molecular diagnostics, oncology, or a closely related area.

  • Extensive experience in developing genetic assays, including qPCR, NGS, and other molecular techniques.

  • Strong understanding of cancer biology, tumor genomics, and biomarkers relevant to early cancer detection.

  • Proven experience in genetics, proteomics, epigenetics research related to cancer diagnostics.

  • Track record of leading successful R&D projects, with a portfolio of peer-reviewed publications and patents.

  • Experience with regulatory standards for diagnostic test development, including CLIA, CAP, and FDA regulations.

  • Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.

  • Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with multi-disciplinary teams.

  • Exceptional oral and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific ideas to both technical and non-technical audiences.

  • Strong ability to work independently, managing projects from inception to completion with minimal supervision.



Preferred Qualifications:



  • Experience in liquid biopsy, miRNA analysis, ctDNA analysis and other non-invasive diagnostic technologies.

  • Knowledge of bioinformatics tools and software for genetic data analysis.

  • Previous experience in a leadership role within the biotech or diagnostics industry.



Benefits:



  • Competitive salary and stock options.

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

  • 401(k) plan with company match.

  • Generous paid time off and flexible work hours.

  • Professional development opportunities and career advancement.



*The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to do this job. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.












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