An Assay Development Scientist creates assays or systems to test and evaluate the effect of a chemical compound on an organism. Directs assay development as part of a research process to develop new drugs.
Lead the development, implementation, and day-to-day operations of the laboratory?s liquid biopsy research program focused on biomarker discovery and clinical translation for pediatric diffuse midline glioma (DMG). In partnership with the PI (Dr. Koschmann), coordinate scientific priorities, establish research goals, oversee timelines and deliverables, and manage multi-phase translational studies involving CSF and plasma cell-free tumor DNA (ctDNA) analyses across institutional and multi-site clinical trial efforts.
Research Design, Experimental Execution, and Data Analysis:
Independently design, supervise, and interpret complex translational biomarker experiments, including molecular assay development, analytical validation, and longitudinal therapeutic monitoring studies. Oversee analysis and integration of liquid biopsy data, evaluate assay performance, and contribute to development of computational/statistical approaches for biomarker interpretation and clinical implementation.
Grant, Manuscript, and Scientific Communication:
Prepare significant portions of grant applications, progress reports, manuscripts, and scientific presentations. Co-author publications and present findings at institutional, national, and international meetings related to pediatric neuro-oncology and liquid biopsy biomarker development.
Personnel Supervision, Training, and Laboratory Operations:
Provide functional and administrative supervision of research personnel, trainees, and laboratory staff engaged in liquid biopsy studies. Ensure compliance with laboratory protocols, quality assurance standards, biospecimen handling procedures, and operational goals of the research program. Required Qualifications• Bachelor?s Degree required. 6+ years of related experience, i.e., published in a field of specialty and academic knowledge inPediatric Brain Tumor research Doctoral Degree in field of expertise or Master?s Degree and equivalent experience preferred Modes of Work Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes. Background Screening The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Application Deadline Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. U-M EEO Statement The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Job Opening
ID 278836
Working Title Research Area Specialist Lead Job Title Research Area Specialist Lead Work Location Ann Arbor Campus Ann Arbor, MI Modes of Work Hybrid Full/Part Time Full-Time Regular/Temporary Regular FLSA Status Exempt Organizational Group Medical School Department MM Pediatrics-Hematology Oncol Posting Begin/End Date 6/17/2026 - 7/01/2026 Career Interest Research
