Scientist, Molecular Assay Development

The Opportunity

QuidelOrtho unites the strengths of Quidel Corporation and Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, creating a world-leading in vitro diagnostics company with award-winning expertise in immunoassay and molecular testing, clinical chemistry and transfusion medicine. We are more than 6,000 strong and do business in over 130 countries, providing answers with fast, accurate and consistent testing where and when they are needed most – home to hospital, lab to clinic.

Our culture puts our team members first and prioritizes actions that support happiness, inspiration and engagement. We strive to build meaningful connections with each other as we believe that employee happiness and business success are linked. Join us in our mission to transform the power of diagnostics into a healthier future for all.

The Role

At QuidelOrtho, we’re advancing the power of diagnostics for a healthier future for all. Join our mission as our next Scientist to support our Molecular Assay Development team and play a key role in advancing innovative diagnostic solutions.

In this hands-on R&D role, you will contribute to the design, development, and validation of molecular assays across multiple programs, and help drive assay performance from early feasibility through analytical validation, ultimately supporting the development of high-quality diagnostic products.

This position will be onsite full-time at our San Diego, CA (Sorrento Valley) location.

The Responsibilities

• Supports molecular assay design and development activities across multiple programs
• Conducts feasibility studies and contributes to technical approach selection (e.g., qPCR, RT-qPCR, multiplex strategies) under guidance
• Executes experimental plans and generates high-quality data to support assay performance and development milestones
• Contributes to analytical validation studies, including LoD, precision, reproducibility, and robustness
• Analyzes and interprets molecular data, identifies trends, and communicates results clearly to the team
• Supports troubleshooting efforts related to assay chemistry, workflow, and instrumentation
• Participates in cross-functional design reviews and provides technical input as appropriate
• Contributes to risk assessments (e.g., FMEA) and supports design control activities
• Supports development of QC strategies, reference material characterization, and analytical controls
• Contributes to regulatory documentation by generating data summaries and

technical reports

• Collaborates with Manufacturing and Operations teams to support assay transfer and scale-up
• Maintains accurate and compliant laboratory documentation in accordance with quality and regulatory requirements
• Stays current on emerging molecular technologies and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives
•  Perform other work-related duties as assigned.

The Individual

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Biomedical
• Sciences, or related discipline required; Master’s degree preferred
• 5–8 years of experience in molecular assay development or diagnostics
• Experience working in regulated environments (FDA, ISO 13485, design control) preferred
• Demonstrated ability to independently design and execute experiments
• Experience with qPCR and RT-qPCR techniques
• Understanding of nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection
• Familiarity with multiplex assay development and optimization
• Experience with analytical validation and performance characterization
• Basic knowledge of sequencing technologies (Sanger and/or NGS)
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of design control and risk management principles
• Working knowledge of BSL-2 laboratory practices
• Strong data analysis, documentation, and communication skills
• This position is not currently eligible for visa sponsorship. 

The Key Working Relationships

Internal Partners:

• R&D and Assay Development Teams – Execute experiments, generate data, and support assay optimization
• Bioinformatics – Collaborate on target selection, sequence analysis, and assay performance
• Regulatory and Quality – Provide technical data and documentation to support submissions
• Manufacturing and Operations – Support assay transfer and process optimization
• Program Management – Communicate progress, risks, and timelines

External Partners:

• CROs and external partners – Support execution of external studies
• Reference material suppliers – Assist with qualification and performance monitoring

How We Work

At QuidelOrtho, our culture is shaped by four core behaviors that guide how we collaborate, make decisions, and support each other and those we serve. The ideal candidate will exhibit these behaviors, as we believe they’re essential to how we thrive as a team and achieve meaningful impact:

• Thrive Together – Collaborate intentionally, grow as a team
• Make It Happen – Focus on priorities, embrace continuous improvement
• Commit to Service – Cultivate a service mindset
• Embrace Inclusion – Be open and authentic, welcome diverse perspectives

The Work Environment

The work environment characteristics are representative of a manufacturing, laboratory, or warehouse environment and include handling of viral and bacterial hazards, potentially hazardous chemicals, as well as infectious or potentially infectious bodily fluids, tissues, and samples. Up to 75% of the time at desk, standing or sitting extended periods of time. Flexible work hours to meet project deadlines

Physical Demands

Position requires ability to lift up to 20 lbs. on a regular basis. Walking, standing, and sitting for long periods of time (up to 75% of the day) are routine to accomplish tasks in this role. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close and distance vision and the ability to adjust focus. Personal protective equipment is required as posted.

Salary Transparency

The salary range for this position takes into account a wide range of factors including education, experience, knowledge, skills, geography, and abilities of the candidate, in addition to internal equity and alignment with market data. At QuidelOrtho, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. The salary range for this position is $85,000 to $95,000 and is bonus eligible. QuidelOrtho offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with a 401(k) plan, employee assistance program, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, paid time off (including sick time), and paid Holidays. All benefits are non-contractual, and QuidelOrtho may amend, terminate, or enhance the benefits provided, as it deems appropriate.

Equal Opportunity

QuidelOrtho believes in Equal Opportunity for all and is committed to ensuring all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, have an opportunity to apply for those positions that they are interested in and qualify for without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. QuidelOrtho is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals so that an individual can perform the duties. If you are interested in applying for an employment opportunity and require special assistance or an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please contact us at recruiting@quidelortho.com.

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