The Company: Astek, a Baltimore based diagnostic company, is developing next generation clinical diagnostic technology for bacterial infections and antibiotic susceptibility. The company is preparing to launch a diagnostic system for urinary tract infections in 2024. The commercialization pipeline includes products for bacteremia and meningitis on a common instrument platform.

The Role: We are seeking an experienced full-time assay development scientist with expertise in bacterial infections of blood. The successful candidate will be responsible for serving as Principal Investigator, planning and conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing results, and reporting conclusions. The role will involve working with bacterial cultures, blood samples, and other biological materials. The candidate should be highly organized, detail-oriented, and possess excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct in vitro experiments using bacterial cultures and blood samples
• Prepare and analyze samples using Astek’s proprietary technology and bacteria culture
• Serve as the laboratory manager and environmental health and safety officer
• Document experimental procedures, results, and conclusions in laboratory notebooks
• Collaborate with other members of the team to plan and execute experiments
• Participate in lab meetings and contribute to the development of research strategies
• Ability to interpret data and prepare summary reports

Qualifications:

• Masters degree or PhD in microbiology, biochemistry, or a related field
• At least 2 years of experience working in a laboratory with a focus on bacteria and blood
• Experience with bacterial culture techniques, blood handling and processing
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and software, such as microscopes, spectrophotometers, and image analysis software
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently in a team environment
• Attention to detail

Compensation:

• Competitive salary
• Equity incentive plan
• Full Benefits including paid holidays (10 days), Paid time off (15 days) and 401K plan