Job Description
Role Description
Zoetis Reference Laboratories seeks a full-time Veterinary Molecular Diagnostics Lead to own the development, validation, implementation, and lifecycle management of multiplex real-time PCR (qPCR/RT PCR) panels for detecting infectious agents in animal specimens. The role blends veterinary diagnostic expertise with advanced molecular methods to deliver accurate, clinically meaningful results. Focus areas include continuous assay improvement, workflow efficiency, and quality/compliance. The position will report to the Head of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Testing and will partner closely with veterinary specialists, lab operations, quality, bench teams, and commercial stakeholders in a high throughput, quality driven, and collaborative environment.
We value positive, adaptable leaders who support the veterinary community and thrive in a dynamic, cross functional setting. Zoetis is a values-driven organization.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Design, optimize, validate/verify, and implement multiplex PCR panels (including primer/probe design, assay optimization, and acceptance criteria).
- Execute and document validations/verifications and appropriately document and report study results.
- Lead/support SOP, policy, and data reporting development in conjunction with the ZRL Quality Management System and other stakeholder groups.
- Annually review primer/probe targets (in silico and/or empirical) and assess new reagents/controls; lead updates and supply changes as needed.
- Implement QC program and QC monitoring. Responsible for QC trending and reporting of data; escalate issues promptly.
- Lead or support, as applicable, investigations of nonconformances, root cause, CAPA, and effectiveness checks.
- Troubleshoot assay and performance issues using data-driven approaches.
- Oversee technician review of PCR data to ensure accurate reporting.
- Consult with internal teams and veterinary customers on complex results and case workup. Internal teams may include ZRL Medical and Operational teams, as well as Commercial teams.
- Provide scientific leadership, mentorship, and support training initiatives for bench colleagues.
- Collaborate with operations on efficiency and budget stewardship.
- Contribute to equipment readiness and reagent inventory planning as applicable.
- Support safe work practices and biosafety compliance (BSL-2).
- Stay current on veterinary diagnostics, emerging pathogens, and new methods and technology.
- Support validation/training for new equipment or processes (e.g., liquid handling implementation).
- When required, support technology or assay transfer from R&D to ZRL operations.
- As required, support of other lab sections (e.g. Serology or Bacteriology sections).
QUALIFICATIONS
- MS required; PhD preferred in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Veterinary/Animal Health sciences, or related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
- 10+ years in veterinary molecular diagnostics or closely related diagnostic/IVD environment. Veterinary microbiology and/or molecular laboratory experience is essential.
- 10+ years of hands-on experience developing and validating real-time PCR (qPCR/RT PCR) and multiplex assays.
- 10+ years of experience with Sanger sequencing, BLAST analysis and primer design required.
- 10+ years of experience with proficiency testing as a competency tool.
- 10+ years of experience with utilization of a quality system for molecular diagnostics. Experience preferred with AAVLD or ISO 17025 accreditation. Candidate must provide evidence of quality system adherence.
- Experience with next generation sequencing (NGS) is a plus.
- Bioinformatics experience (sequence analysis, primer/probe design, strain surveillance) is a plus.
- 5+ years of hands-on experience verifying or validating diagnostic serological assays is a plus.
- Experience with NALHN-sanctioned disease testing is a plus.
KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:
- Expertise in DNA/RNA extraction (manual/automated), PCR (conventional and real time) setup, environmental contamination control, liquid handling and automation techniques and equipment and troubleshooting.
- Demonstrated success in high-throughput testing environments and with automation platforms.
- Working knowledge of laboratory information system (LIS), documentation practices, and regulated/quality environments.
- Proficient with primer design and genomics tools (e.g., CLC Workbench or equivalent).
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills; ability to lead cross-functionally.
- Proficient in Excel or related software for control charting purposes and data analysis
PHYSICAL POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- This position is remote, but periodic travel is required
- Able to work hours on a computer and tolerate computer screens, including video conferencing
- Able to physically tolerate laboratory bench work related to assay validation and training.
- Ability to effectively conduct phone calls and communicate in person.
- Occasional required movements may include bending, kneeling, and crouching.
- May be required to lift, move, carry up to 25 lbs.
The U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is 114,000 - 175,000. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the base pay target range for new hire salaries for the position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
This position is also eligible for short-term incentive compensation.
This position is also eligible for long-term incentives.
In addition to compensation, Zoetis offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports the physical, emotional and financial wellbeing of our colleagues and their families including healthcare and insurance benefits beginning on day one, a 401K plan with a match and profit-sharing contribution from Zoetis, and 4 weeks of vacation.
Visit zoetisbenefits.com to learn more.
Full timeRegularColleagueAny unsolicited resumes sent to Zoetis from a third party, such as an Agency recruiter, including unsolicited resumes sent to a Zoetis mailing address, fax machine or email address, directly to Zoetis employees, or to Zoetis resume database will be considered Zoetis property. Zoetis will NOT pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume.
Zoetis will consider any candidate for whom an Agency has submitted an unsolicited resume to have been referred by the Agency free of any charges or fees. This includes any Agency that is an approved/engaged vendor but does not have the appropriate approvals to be engaged on a search.
Notice: Zoetis Recruiters will contact candidates via email from an address ending in @zoetis.com and may also initially connect with candidates through LinkedIn, including LinkedIn InMail. Zoetis does not use Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, or other web-based/generic email domains to communicate about job opportunities, interviews, or offers of employment. If you receive a recruitment-related email message claiming to be from Zoetis that does not come from @zoetis.com, please treat it as suspicious. For your security, do not reply, click links, open attachments, share personal or financial information, or send money in response to unexpected or questionable recruitment communications.
Zoetis is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status or any other protected classification. Disabled individuals are given an equal opportunity to use our online application system. We offer reasonable accommodations as an alternative if requested by an individual with a disability. Please contact Zoetis Colleague Services at to request an accommodation. Zoetis also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act. All applicants must possess or obtain authorization to work in the US for Zoetis. Zoetis retains sole and exclusive discretion to pursue sponsorship for the acquisition or maintenance of nonimmigrant status and employment eligibility, considering factors such as availability of qualified US workers. Individuals requiring sponsorship must disclose this fact. Please note that Zoetis seeks information related to job applications from candidates for jobs in the U.S. solely via the following: (1) our company website at www.Zoetis.com/careers site, or (2) via email to/from addresses using only the Zoetis domain of “@zoetis.com”. In addition, Zoetis does not use Google Hangout for any recruitment related activities. Any solicitation or request for information related to job applications with Zoetis via any other means and/or utilizing email addresses with any other domain should be disregarded. In addition, Zoetis will never ask candidates to make any type of personal financial investment related to gaining employment with Zoetis.Originally posted on Himalayas
