Assay Development Scientist

At LEX Diagnostics, we're on a mission to bring laboratory-quality PCR results to the point of care, in under 10 minutes. And we're not stopping there.

We're expanding our Assay Development team and looking for a curious, hands-on scientist who's passionate about molecular biology and wants to push the boundaries of what's possible in ultra fast diagnostics.

If you're someone who enjoys solving scientific puzzles, thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, and wants your work to have a real-world impact, then we need to be talking.

What the role's all about.

You'll be right at the heart of our biology team, designing and developing cutting-edge PCR-based tests that are fast, accurate, and ready for real-world use.

This is a lab based, sleeves-rolled-up kind of role. You'll be running experiments, optimising assays, and working closely with our engineering, reagent, and integration teams to make sure everything works seamlessly.

You'll also explore new frontiers in PCR based assays and novel amplification techniques, helping us build a system that's not just fast, but game-changing.

What you'll be doing:

Designing, developing, and optimising ultra rapid PCR assays

Developing rapid nucleic acid extraction methods for cartridge-based systems

Collaborating across science and engineering teams to integrate assay and hardware development

Contributing to assay feasibility studies and shaping our ever-growing test menu

Sharing ideas, troubleshooting experiments, and helping steer projects toward clinical success

Supporting verification and validation of new assays as part of IVD product development

Meticulously documenting your work in our electronic QMS

A PhD (or equivalent industry experience) in molecular biology, microbiology, or similar

Significant hands-on experience with PCR, qRT-PCR, and nucleic acid extraction

Confident in designing and running experiments and analysing data

Comfortable working under Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)

We're a startup environment so you need to be a team player who's flexible, collaborative, and happy to shift gears when priorities change

Strong communication skills, both in the lab and in team discussions

Who are we and what does the future hold for you?

LEX Diagnostics was founded in 2020. Our innovative system integrates effortlessly into primary care settings, bringing PCR-level sensitivity to urgent care centres, physicians, labs, and pharmacies, all at a significantly lower cost per test than other molecular platforms.

2025 is a milestone year for us as we've just submitted dual 510(k) CLIA waiver applications to the U.S. FDA. This means you will be an important part of a high impact launch that will enhance your future career credentials.

The Future

In December 2023, QuidelOrtho invested in LEX Diagnostics, which included the exclusive option to acquire the company up to or shortly after 510(k) clearance by the FDA. In QuidelOrtho, we have an investment partner that recognises the capabilities of our team, and are excited for what we can continue to build together We are optimistic to receive 510(k) clearance in late 2025 or early 2026.

What this means for you

1. More Resources - Manufacturing scale, regulatory & distribution infrastructure

2. R&D Focus - Concentrated innovation around LEX platform and test menu

3. Career Mobility - As well as creating a cross-disciplinary development environment in science and engineering, LEX employees can transition into broader roles (e.g., regulatory affairs, global supply chain, sales, clinical affairs) across the integrated organisation.

4. Global Exposure - International workflows & markets (US & EU)

5. Impact & Stability - Increased product reach and organisational strength

6. Development - Structured programs and training opportunities

2026 - We should see the elevation of the LEX Diagnostics team from startup environment into a well-supported, international diagnostics powerhouse without sacrificing the very thing that made our team successful, innovation. You'll help drive forward a unique, market-leading platform within a growing team that needs to invest in your development and career growth.

Our working culture encourages entrepreneurship, shared ideas, and technical collaboration, while providing you the freedom to do your best work. We also offer fantastic employee benefits including:

Employer pension contribution of 10% (+3% personal contribution)

Private Medical Insurance

Life insurance

25 days' annual holiday plus bank holidays

Discounts and memberships to local sports facilities and the theatre

You'll be part of a close-knit biology team, with plenty of crosstalk with engineers, reagent scientists, and product developers. If you're excited by complex challenges and want your work to make a difference, then this is the place to be.

Come join us and help shape the future of diagnostics, one ultra-fast test at a time.