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Assay Development Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

R&D Assay Director - Accellix

Lombard, IL · On-site

$195K - $255K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This role leads the establishment and ramp-up of the ACCELLIX Assay R&D capability in Lombard, with end-to-end accountability for building the team, technology transfer from existing site, and ...

R&D Assay Director - Accellix

Lombard, IL

$195K - $255K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This role leads the establishment and ramp-up of the ACCELLIX Assay R&D capability in Lombard, with end-to-end accountability for building the team, technology transfer from existing site, and ...

R&D Assay Director - Accellix

Lombard, IL · On-site

$195K - $255K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This role leads the establishment and ramp-up of the ACCELLIX Assay R&D capability in Lombard, with end-to-end accountability for building the team, technology transfer from existing site, and ...

R&D Assay Director - Accellix

Lombard, IL

$195K - $255K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This role leads the establishment and ramp-up of the ACCELLIX Assay R&D capability in Lombard, with end-to-end accountability for building the team, technology transfer from existing site, and ...

Tempus is seeking a Senior Director, Research & Development to lead late-stage assay and product development across molecular diagnostics, with a focus on design-controlled IVDs, CDx, IUOs, LDTs ...

Senior Scientist R&D

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $135K/yr

Senior Scientist, Molecular Assay Development in R&D Passionate about precision medicine and advancing the healthcare industry? Recent advancements in underlying technology have finally made it ...

Senior Scientist R&D

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $135K/yr

Senior Scientist, Molecular Assay Development in R&D Passionate about precision medicine and advancing the healthcare industry? Recent advancements in underlying technology have finally made it ...

Tempus is seeking a Senior Director, Research & Development to lead late-stage assay and product development across molecular diagnostics, with a focus on design-controlled IVDs, CDx, IUOs, LDTs ...

Sr Scientist I, Automation Development

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The successful candidate will have strong hands-on experience in assay development, automation, and the generation and interpretation of physicochemical data to inform developability. Experience with ...

Sr Scientist I, Automation Development

North Chicago, IL

$88K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The successful candidate will have strong hands-on experience in assay development, automation, and the generation and interpretation of physicochemical data to inform developability. Experience with ...

Sr Scientist I, Automation Development

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$96K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The successful candidate will have strong hands-on experience in assay development, automation, and the generation and interpretation of physicochemical data to inform developability. Experience with ...

Lead development of molecular assays and NGS workflows for high-throughput clinical laboratories. * Design, execute, and analyze R&D studies with scientific rigor and attention to detail. * Lead ...

NGS Senior Scientist 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Lead development of molecular assays and NGS workflows for high-throughput clinical laboratories. * Design, execute, and analyze R&D studies with scientific rigor and attention to detail. * Lead ...

We are looking for a Program Manager to lead the development and launch of new assays and initiatives within the Product Development Organization. What You'll Do: Program Leadership & Execution

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Production & Assay Lead

Itasca, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a Production & Assay Lead for our client in Itasca, IL. Our client is a specialty ... Support new product development from the bench through launch * Pitch in wherever needed; this is a ...

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Showing results 1-20

Assay Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$21

$39

$63

How much do assay development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay development in Chicago, IL is $39.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.23 and $47.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced when developing new assays, and how can they be addressed?

Assay Development professionals often encounter challenges such as optimizing assay sensitivity and specificity, troubleshooting inconsistent results, and adapting protocols for high-throughput environments. These issues are typically addressed through systematic optimization of reagents and conditions, rigorous validation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams like R&D, quality assurance, and automation specialists. Clear documentation and regular team meetings also help in quickly identifying and resolving technical hurdles, ensuring the assay meets project goals and regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in assay development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Assay Development, you need a solid background in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced training. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, data analysis software, and validation protocols is typically required, along with experience in techniques like ELISA, PCR, or cell-based assays. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of assays, which are critical for research, diagnostics, and product development.

What does an assay development scientist do?

An assay development scientist designs, optimizes, and validates laboratory tests to measure specific biological or chemical substances. They work with techniques such as ELISA, PCR, or spectrophotometry, often using specialized equipment and following regulatory standards to ensure assay accuracy and reliability.

What is the difference between Assay Development vs Laboratory Scientist?

AspectAssay DevelopmentLaboratory Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences, relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firmsResearch labs, hospitals, biotech companies
Industry UsageDesigning and optimizing assays for research and diagnosticsPerforming experiments, data collection, and analysis

Assay Development focuses on creating and optimizing diagnostic or research assays, while Laboratory Scientists perform experiments and analyze data within the lab. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Assay Development jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Assay Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Assay Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Assay Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Assay Development job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,909 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

R&D Assay Director - Accellix

Biomerieux

Lombard, IL • On-site

$195K - $255K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description
Position Summary & Responsibilities:
This role leads the establishment and ramp-up of the ACCELLIX Assay R&D capability in Lombard, with end-to-end accountability for building the team, technology transfer from existing site, and delivery of assay development programs. The position operates across multiple geographies (US, Israel) ensuring continuity of R&D activities while building a sustainable long-term organization. This role combines strategic execution, organizational build, and operational delivery responsibilities in a high visibility integration context. Accountable for successful transfer and continuity of ACCELLIX assay R&D activities across sites - San Jose California (SJC), Jerusalem Israel (JLM) and Lombard, IL (LOM).
  • Build and structure the ACCELLIX Assay R&D team, including hiring, role definition, and establishment of a scalable operating model
  • Finalize integration of the Accellix US team within bioMérieux and establish a unified ACCELLIX bioscience organization across sites
  • Build and develop a high-performing team, defining ways of working, performance expectations, and cross-site collaboration practices
  • Lead technology and knowledge transfer from existing R&D teams to Lombard, ensuring continuity while minimizing disruption
  • Operate in a context of simultaneous integration, team build, and active program execution
  • Ensure delivery of assay development programs in line with ACCELLIX integration timelines and business priorities
  • Own prioritization and execution decisions within ACCELLIX assay R&D scope, balancing resources, timelines, and evolving integration needs
  • In close collaboration with Project and Program teams, ensure reliable, efficient, and timely delivery of new assays.
  • Coordinate activities across multiple geographies (US, Israel) to align priorities, resources, and execution plans
  • Work closely with the Jerusalem system team to ensure a "One Accellix" approach
  • Partner with Pharma QC, Food, and Clinical R&D teams to identify synergies and ensure alignment with broader strategies
  • Liaise with Marketing, Sales, Program, and Quality to help shape assay development strategy and ensure alignment with business priorities
  • Represent bioMérieux scientific expertise in congresses and customer-facing engagements
  • Participate in customer interactions to capture Voice of Customer insights and inform the development pipeline
  • Perform all work in compliance with company quality procedures and standards.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience Requirements:
  • Bachelor degree required - higher level of education is preferred
    • In lieu of a Bachelor's degree, 4 years of additional relevant experience, defined below, will be accepted
  • 10+ years of experience in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or medical device regulated environment, including direct experience in Assay Development, Analytical Method Development, or Quality Control functions including 5+ years of specific professional Team Management experience
    • Experience with cell- or gene-therapy-related processes is highly desired.
    • Deep knowledge of Pharma industry ideally in the field of Cells and Genes therapies, especially in the area of QC management is desired
    • Scientific expertise in the field of flow cytometry
    • Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment
    • Experience leading multi-site operations is preferred
    • Speaking French is a plus
  • Anticipated 20% travel required

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • Acting with Honor and Being Open: Consistently upholds and reflects the core ethical principles and values that bioMérieux promotes
  • Understanding the Business: Business Acumen to understand how a business operates and how to make it successful
  • Being Organizationally Savvy: Ability to cooperate with others at all levels including leadership
  • Developing and Inspiring Others: Create and nurture a group of individuals who work well together to achieve common goals
  • Managing Work Processes: Driving continuous improvement by evaluating processes and implementing necessary changes
  • Communicating Effectively: Effective Presentation Skills, including the ability to present technical data
  • Skilled in MS Office tools to include but not limited to Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel

The estimated salary range for this role is between $195,000 - $255,000. This role is eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and individual performance per bioMerieux's bonus program. This range may differ from ranges offered for similar positions elsewhere in the country given differences in cost of living. Actual compensation within this range is determined based on the successful candidate's experience and will be presented in writing at the time of the offer. In addition, bioMérieux offers a competitive Total Rewards package that may include:
  • A choice of medical (including prescription), dental, and vision plans providing nationwide coverage and telemedicine options
  • Company-Provided Life and Accidental Death Insurance
  • Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan including a generous non-discretionary employer contribution and employer match.
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Wellness Programs
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Various voluntary benefit offerings
  • Discount programs
  • Parental leaves

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