Research Technician

TITLE:    Research Technician

REPORTS TO:  Associate Director 

Company Overview

Nanosphere, Inc. (NASDAQ: NSPH) is a nanotechnology-based molecular diagnostics company, offering proprietary breakthrough technologies that provide a unique and powerful solution to greatly simplify molecular diagnostic testing.

Based in Northbrook, IL, Nanosphere employs approximately 110 people and recently received clearance from the FDA for its diagnostics platform and initial tests.  The company also completed an IPO in November of 2007, providing sufficient resources to fund its ambitious growth plans.

Position Overview

Nanosphere is committed to recruiting an outstanding Research Technician during a critical period of the Company's growth and evolution.  The Research Technician will report directly to the Company's Associate Director of Applications Development, and will serve as a key member of the research team.

The Research Technician is responsible for a wide spectrum of research and development functions for the company.  A key success factor for this position is the ability to work in a fast paced, cross functional group environment, with a willingness to be hands-on across a wide area of responsibilities and detail oriented.  This position will spend the majority of time in a lab environment.

This ideal Research Technician candidate is someone with diverse experience and great capacity and desire for taking on new responsibilities and challenges as the company grows.

Key Responsibilities

  • Development of molecular diagnostic systems for the detection of relevant DNA, RNA, and protein targets:
    • Assay Development Activities
    • Systematic assay optimizations for performance and reliability
    • Activities include DNA/RNA isolation, RT-PCR, quantitative RT-PCR, quantitating bacterial and viral cultures
    • Design validation and verification activities for diagnostic assays
    • Clinical Evaluation Activities
    • Assist in clinical evaluation planning
    • Support clinical evaluations of diagnostic tests at internal and external sites
    • Document results in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices
    • Organize results logically and present at team meetings and project reviews


Experience and Qualifications

  • MS in Molecular Biology with at least 3 years of industry experience or;
  • BS with extensive relevant industry experience will be considered
  • Hands-on experience with standard biochemical and molecular biology laboratory techniques. Special emphasis on bacterial and viral techniques.
  • Experience in the development of in vitro diagnostic assays a plus
  • Ability to perform job under GLP and Design Control
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Can-do attitude with a willingness to go the extra mile to assure project success