Assay Development Scientist Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

This position serves as Section Head of the Analytical Chemistry Section, a fast paced, high-volume laboratory that conducts over 200 diagnostic tests and panels daily on animal samples submitted by veterinarians, animal owners, and agricultural stakeholders. The Analytical Chemistry Section provides toxicology services as well as drug testing for livestock competitions, pre-purchase examinations, therapeutic monitoring, and other activities. Professionals within the section utilize various testing methodologies including classic microscopy, GC/MS, ICP/MS, and LC/MS.

General Description

The Analytical Chemistry Section Head is responsible for daily oversight of laboratory operations, including budgetary matters, routine testing, test development, client communications, quality assurance, safety, and employee well–being. The role requires scientific accuracy, completeness, promptness, and generation of associated laboratory results. It also involves workflow coordination, personnel management, implementation of new technologies, evaluation and execution of standard and advanced scientific techniques, and mentoring of personnel. The Section Head must perform routine and non‑routine tasks of advanced complexity, exercise independent decision making, troubleshoot routine and complex problems with or without supervision, and work with minimal or no supervision.

Sample Preparation / Cataloging

Responsible for timely and accurate sample processing and preparation by section staff. Ensures samples are properly accounted for, case data is entered into the laboratory information management system (LIMS), and samples are fit for purpose of test. Reviews submittal forms and interprets client instructions.

Testing

Provides scientific oversight for daily diagnostic testing in the section. Serves as subject matter expert on discipline(s), technique(s), or diagnostic methodology(ies). Oversees performance and interpretation of complex assays for routine and non‑routine testing. Works closely with Lead Scientists, Veterinary Services, fellow Section Heads, and Pathologists in the coordination of cases. Serves as a point of contact and resource for colleagues in other sections or locations. Provides backup to staff during absences and successfully completes proficiency tests for assigned assays.

Method Development, Data Entry, Interpretation, Results

Records observations, results, and measurements in approved worksheets, checklists, and LIMS. Maintains records to allow other personnel to determine case status. Coordinates progress of high‑consequence cases. Provides analysis and review of unexpected or significant results. Delivers diagnostic interpretation to clients based on results and clinical histories. Serves as case coordinator or point of contact for multi‑assigned cases. Ensures daily finalization of cases, reviews, and releases results in accordance with turnaround times.

Client Communication

Contacts clients to clarify test requests, verify specimen sources, and resolve problematic sample submissions. Provides excellent customer service, answers complex questions, and triages calls to appropriate staff. Consults with TVMDL colleagues for holistic case management. Participates in industry meetings to design research efforts and identify new assays. Recommends sample, test, and collection methods, coordinates test agreements, and mitigates client complaints. May serve as subject matter expert for legal depositions or testimony.

Quality Assurance & Safety

Leads by example in quality assurance and safety programs. Manages inventory and safe handling of hazardous chemicals. Identifies issues of non‑compliance, implements corrective and preventative actions, and resolves audit findings. Represents the laboratory on quality assurance and environmental health & safety committees.

Documentation Management

Serves as document manager for SOPs, procedures, forms, workflows, and quality assurance documents. Ensures scientific accuracy and completeness; writes, reviews, and edits documents for compliance. Implements process improvement protocols and maintains timely updates. Prepares reports for special assignments.

Research, Reference Materials, Test Development

Engages in strategic review of business opportunities through literature and market analysis. Collaborates with clients, Lead Scientists, and other Section Heads to develop partnerships. Leads new assay development, validation, instrument configuration, and protocol documentation. May apply for external grant funding, perform data analysis, and draft manuscripts for publication. Attends scientific meetings to stay current in toxicology, pharmacology, analytical chemistry, animal competitions, and related fields.

Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment

Manages fiscal responsibilities for section expenses. Works with Finance staff to follow procurement procedures, approves purchases of supplies, ensures maintenance of equipment, and recommends long‑term vendors.

Administrative Roles

Liaises with regulatory agencies and industry groups. Represents the agency in legal and administrative proceedings. Establishes and manages the section budget, monitors caseload, explores revenue opportunities, and implements policies and procedures. Leads strategic planning and liaises with agency management on projects. Oversees legal case monitoring, record‑keeping for compliance, and adherence to record retention, data integrity, and confidentiality.

Training and Mentorship

Ensures timely, adequate training for staff across scientific, technical, managerial, and leadership competencies. Administers proficiency testing and maintains training records. Provides training on the quality assurance program and LIMS software. Identifies and fulfills further training needs.

Teamwork & Cooperation

Promotes a collaborative, respectful laboratory culture that supports high‑quality diagnostics. Performs cross‑training and knowledge sharing. Provides operational support during increased workload or staff absences. Participates in monthly information meetings and industry conferences.

Supervisory, Evaluation, Employee Support

Recruits, hires, evaluates, counsels, develops, and terminates technicians and chemists. Recommends promotions, salary actions, and maintains documentation. Provides ethical, non‑discriminatory, positive work environment. Addresses personnel issues, manages conflict, and implements grievance solutions. Oversees staff training, orientation, and safety compliance.

Supervising Other Managers

Directly manages other managers in the section, providing coaching, training, and mentorship. Assists supervisors with promotion preparation.

Other

Promotes new or modified tests, TVMDL services, and client‑education topics through copy, presentations, and exhibits. Assists in 4‑H student programs, career fairs, and lab tours.

• This position is eligible for a partially remote work arrangement for up to 16 hours per week and may include flex scheduling.
• TVMDL is located on the Texas A&M University campus. Parking permits are available at employee expense.
• TVMDL is essential to the Texas A&M University System and may operate on essential holidays, with overtime or compensatory time as applicable.
• This position requires a pre‑exposure rabies vaccination series; TVMDL will cover all costs.
• All veterinarians employed at TVMDL must obtain a full license or special license from the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (TBVME).
• Occasional in‑state travel is required. Operates assigned equipment safely and in accordance with all institutional and federal laws.

Required Education and Experience

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Master’s/Ph.D. in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Five years of related experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of the section’s discipline and quality assurance/safety programs.
• Ability to perform assigned assays with no technical supervision and considerable independent decision making.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong managerial and leadership abilities.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

Preferred Education and Experience

• DVM with board certification or eligibility to sit for the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology and/or American Board of Toxicology, or Ph.D. with similar eligibility.
• Prior professional experience as a laboratory manager with at least seven years in veterinary toxicology or drug testing.
• Experience implementing error resolution or process improvements; familiarity with LC/MS, ICP/MS, or GC/MS.
• Familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025, AAVLD accreditation, QA/QC systems, and LIMS.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated success in increasing responsibility.
• Ability to implement error resolution or process improvements.

Registrations, Certifications, and Licenses

• Must have a valid Texas motor vehicle operator’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment.