Job Description

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