Role Overview
The Molecular Lead will oversee and guide molecular biology research and/or diagnostic operations. This person serves as the technical expert and team lead, ensuring that molecular workflows are accurate, efficient, compliant with regulations, and aligned with the lab’s goals. They will mentor team members, manage projects, and troubleshoot complex molecular assays.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the molecular biology team: supervise, mentor, train, and evaluate performance of scientists, technologists or laboratory analysts.
- Oversee daily lab operations: workflow prioritization, sample processing, QC/QA, maintenance of equipment.
- Develop, validate, and transfer molecular assays (e.g. PCR and qPCR).
- Troubleshoot assay failures, resolve technical problems, and ensure data integrity.Ensure compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards (e.g. CLIA, CAP, GMP/GLP).
- Manage documentation: SOPs, protocols, lab notebooks, reports, audits.
- Collaborate across functions: R&D, bioinformatics, quality, or clinical operations.
- Participate in improvement initiatives: process optimization, cost efficiency, inventory management.
- Possibly contribute to hiring decisions and budgeting of the molecular section
Required Qualifications
- Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, or a related field.
- Significant experience (often 5‑10+ years) in molecular biology or diagnostic labs.
- Previous experience leading teams or supervising others.
- Strong technical skills with molecular assays: PCR, qPCR, NGS, etc.Thorough understanding of lab quality systems and relevant regulations.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
Preferred / Nice‑to‑haves
Experience with GMP / GLP environments.
Experience with method development, transfer, and validation.
Experience in high‑throughput / clinical diagnostic labs.
Bioinformatics or computational skills.Certification (e.g. ASCP) or specific lab accreditation experience.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $20.88 - $22.09 per hour
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Ability to Commute:
- Downers Grove, IL 60515 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Downers Grove, IL 60515: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: In person
