IVD Assay Characterization and Validation Consultant

Job Title: IVD Assay Characterization and Validation Consultant

Job Location: Indianapolis, IN

Job Type: Contract

Pay Range: $53.00hr - $53.00hr

Job Overview:

Our client is seeking an IVD Assay Characterization & Validation Consultant to drive the technical characterization, execution, analytical verification, and regulatory documentation for automated clinical chemistry assays. This role requires a hands-on scientist with a proven track record of translating complex biochemical assays into scalable, manufactured diagnostic products. The candidate will spearhead CLSI-compliant validation protocols, manage analyzer operations, lead multi-method matrix characterizations, and author technical packages for FDA Pre-Submissions (Q-Sub).

Duties:

• Drive the technical characterization, execution, analytical verification, and regulatory documentation for automated clinical chemistry assays.
• Hands-on work translating complex biochemical assays into scalable, manufactured diagnostic products.
• Spearhead CLSI-compliant validation protocols, manage analyzer operations, lead multi-method matrix characterizations, and author technical packages for FDA Pre-Submissions (Q-Sub).

Organisation Overview:

• Doing now what patients need next.
• Committed to helping people with diabetes everywhere in the world manage their daily diabetes routine, offering true relief, day and night.
• Offers a broad portfolio of solutions for both people with diabetes and healthcare professionals, ranging from blood glucose monitoring to information management and continuous glucose monitoring.
• Aims to offer innovative products, services, and comprehensive solutions for convenient, efficient, and effective diabetes management.
• Strongly committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, building teams that represent a range of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills to drive innovation.
• Passionate about transforming patients lives through scientific rigor, unassailable ethics, and access to medical innovations for all.
• Internal manufacturing operations responsible for strip manufacturing across the majority of the blood glucose monitoring portfolio for global demand, with future responsibility for sensor manufacturing in the continuous glucose monitoring portfolio.

Key Responsibilities:

• Author, review, and finalize formal clinical validation protocols in strict alignment with CLSI guidelines.
• Establish analytical and clinical acceptance criteria for non-standard, altered, or synthetic matrix applications.
• Design iterative experimental workflows to characterize precision, linearity, interferents, stability, and matrix dynamics.
• Lead hands-on operation, calibration, and execution on automated clinical chemistry platforms (specifically Cobas systems).
• Perform complex multi-day evaluations (e.g., 20-day EP05 protocols), spike-and-recovery assessments, and serial dilution series.
• Mentor and train laboratory staff on platform SOPs, clinical protocols, and standardized analytical techniques.
• Spearhead method comparison studies evaluating candidate assays against primary and secondary reference standards.
• Investigate and resolve complex matrix phenomena, surface tension variations, fluidic behavior, and recovery bias in protein-free aqueous solutions.
• Conduct iterative assay characterization cycles to define Limits of Detection/Quantitation (LoD/LoQ) and Analytical Measuring Ranges (AMR).
• Perform statistical analysis on raw datasets using specialized validation software to build statistical models, recovery plots, and bias metrics.
• Draft comprehensive Method Validation Reports (MVRs) for inclusion in the Design History File (DHF) and regulatory filings.
• Compile analytical performance packages for FDA Pre-Submission (Q-Sub) documentation.
• Frame strategic technical and regulatory questions for FDA Q-Sub interactions regarding matrix expansion and validation scope.

Qualifications & Technical Expertise:

• B.S., M.S., On-going Ph.D., or Ph.D. in Clinical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 2+ years in IVD assay development, characterization, and method validation within a regulated quality environment (FDA 21 CFR 820 / ISO 13485).
• Deep, practical knowledge of CLSI standard methodologies.
• Direct, hands-on experience operating automated clinical chemistry analyzers (Cobas experience strongly preferred).
• Working knowledge of FDA 510(k) matrix expansion strategies and the Q-Sub process.

Candidate Profile & Key Competencies:

• Demonstrated ability to bridge theoretical chemistry and commercial IVD manufacturing requirements.
• Strong, practical troubleshooting capability on benchtop and automated platforms.
• Exceptional experimental discipline, data integrity, and attention to detail.
• Ability to distill complex analytical findings into actionable insights for scientific, engineering, and regulatory teams.
• Self-directed operator who thrives in a fast-paced, milestone-driven product development environment.

What is Offered:

• Flexible consulting/contract arrangement.
• Competitive hourly or project-based compensation.
• Direct contribution to a large scale commercial point-of-care (POC) IVD product launch.
• Potential for expanded technical leadership or long-term collaboration.

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• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Disability Insurance (Short-Term and Long-Term)
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Paid Sick Leave (where required by applicable state or local law)
• Supplemental Insurance Plans
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Employee Wellness Programs
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Career Growth and Professional Development Opportunities