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Assay Development Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Chemist I/ii

Madison, WI · On-site

$55K/yr

... assays, immunoreaction assays, and molecular technologies. Depending on the individual previous ... Participation in continuous learning through professional development activities is also expected.

Chemist I/II

Madison, WI · On-site

$55K/yr

... assays, immunoreaction assays, and molecular technologies. Depending on the individual previous ... Participation in continuous learning through professional development activities is also expected.

Development & Process Transfer Sub-Family Industrialization Strategy Definition and Management ... Support QC assay transfer as well as optimization & trouble shoot activities. Carries out the ...

... assay and related offerings. This role is responsible for defining portfolio strategy, market ... Partner with R&D and Operations to guide new product development, product enhancements, and ...

... assay and related offerings. This role is responsible for defining portfolio strategy, market ... Partner with R&D and Operations to guide new product development, product enhancements, and ...

... assay and related offerings. This role is responsible for defining portfolio strategy, market ... Partner with R&D and Operations to guide new product development, product enhancements, and ...

Research Scientist

Madison, WI · On-site

$78K - $156K/yr

... development of diagnostic assay products. Essential Duties Include, but are not limited to, the following: * Independently designs, executes, and analyzes moderately complex experiments; develops ...

Research Scientist

Madison, WI · On-site

$78K - $156K/yr

... development of diagnostic assay products. Essential Duties Include, but are not limited to, the following: * Independently designs, executes, and analyzes moderately complex experiments; develops ...

... assays, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods. * Collaborate effectively within and across functional teams in a fast-paced, milestone-driven environment to support the development and ...

... assays, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods. * Collaborate effectively within and across functional teams in a fast-paced, milestone-driven environment to support the development and ...

... development of diagnostic assay products. This position provides leadership to a team of Bioinformatics Associates and/or Scientists by working to define clear and realistic goals and developing a ...

... development of diagnostic assay products. This position provides leadership to a team of Bioinformatics Associates and/or Scientists by working to define clear and realistic goals and developing a ...

GID Technician

Verona, WI · On-site

$38K - $50K/yr

Verona, WI Job Summary and Purpose (Development Process Transfer) Assist in the industrial ... Support QC assay transfer as well as optimization & trouble shoot activities. Carries out the ...

Showing results 41-60

Assay Development information

See Madison, WI salary details

$20

$38

$62

How much do assay development jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay development in Madison, WI is $38.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.56 and $46.49 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 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 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 adhering to regulatory standards to ensure assay accuracy and reliability.

What is assay development?

Assay development is the process of designing and optimizing laboratory tests to detect or measure specific biological molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, or small compounds. It involves selecting appropriate techniques, reagents, and conditions to ensure accuracy, sensitivity, and reproducibility, often requiring knowledge of biochemistry and instrumentation. Assay development is essential in fields like diagnostics, drug discovery, and research to generate reliable data for decision-making.
Infographic showing various Assay Development job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,033 per year, or $39 per hour.

$55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


University Of Wisconsin-Madison rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

127th of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.
Job Category: Academic Staff
Employment Type: Regular
Job Profile: Chemist I
Job Summary:
The Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene (WSLH) is the state's public and environmental health laboratory. As part of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the WSLH is committed to exploring new ideas which benefit the state, the nation and the world. The newborn screening laboratory has an exciting fast-paced full time public health opportunity for a Chemist.
The primary role of this position is to perform clinical laboratory tests to identify and adequately treat metabolic and congenital disorders in newborns, children and adults as a part of the WSLH Newborn Screening Program.
The techniques relevant to this position include, but not limited to, tandem mass spectrometry, enzymatic assays, immunoreaction assays, and molecular technologies. Depending on the individual previous working experience and the laboratory need, the expected duties may be with an emphasis on one or two areas. In conjunction with other professionals in the program, this position also assists with pre-analytical, analytical, and post analytical phases of testing, including reporting of screening test results. The person in this position is expected to model and use the tools and principles of quality management in their daily work including: demonstrate exceptional professionalism by establishing and maintaining effective professional relationships with directors, manager, supervisors, coworkers, and all customers. The person must use effective team skills to contribute to the efficient operation of the work unit and the organization. Participation in continuous learning through professional development activities is also expected. The position functions under general supervision and direction of the Chemist Supervisor.
Performs testing, manages testing services, and reports results for chemical constituents in specimens and samples collected from humans, plants, animals, or other environmental matrices.
Standard Summary: HS092 Chemist I
Identifies, reviews, and develops new analytical methodologies and sample preparation techniques. Performs high complexity testing, manages testing services with broad implications to public health, and reports results for chemical constituents in specimens and samples collected from humans, plants, animals, or other environmental matrices. Serves as a subject matter technical expert.
**Chemist I job duties listed below under key responsibilities.
Standard Summary: HS092 Chemist II
Identifies, reviews, and develops new analytical methodologies and sample preparation techniques. Performs high complexity testing, manages testing services with broad implications to public health, and reports results for chemical constituents in specimens and samples collected from humans, plants, animals, or other environmental matrices. Serves as a subject matter technical expert.
- 10% Engages in the development, evaluation, and implementation of new methodologies including techniques for chemical research experiments
- 25% Performs high complexity analytical testing, employing quality control and quality assurance practices
- 25% Utilizes, maintains, and troubleshoots laboratory instrumentation and information management systems to meet unit objectives in alignment with strategic initiatives
- 10% Prepares technical reports, makes scientific recommendations based on findings, and presents materials to stake holder groups through various mediums
- 5% Establishes and maintains partnerships with internal and external stakeholders and communicates research updates to appropriate entities
- 15% Supports and/or trains new employees, students, and other professional colleagues
- 5% Provides result interpretation and participates in educational and outreach activities
- 5% Performs non-routine instrument maintenance and repairs
Normal work schedule will be Tuesday - Saturday 8:00 - 4:30 pm following training period.
Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Prepares, reviews, verifies, and reports test result data - 15%
  • Verifies test result validity and/or completes regulatory compliance activities - 5%
  • Prepares, develops, and conducts chemical research experiments analysis of specimens employing quality control and quality assurance practices - 65%
  • Utilizes, maintains, and troubleshoots laboratory instrumentation and information management systems to meet unit objects in alignment with strategic initiatives - 5%
  • Utilizes assigned analytical methods-based quality requirements to verify test result validity and/or meet regulatory compliance - 10%

Department:
Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene - Disease Prevention Division - Newborn Screening
Compensation:
Chemist I - $53,000/year minimum
Chemist II - $55,000/year minimum
• Depending on the experience of a successful candidate, the position will pay according to the salary administration guidelines.
• Actual pay is determined at hire and is based on experience and qualifications.
• This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. For a summary of benefits, please see http://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/fasl.pdf.
Required Qualifications:
WSLH clinical services are certified through the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA), and accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP).
Candidate must meet 42 CFR § 493.1489 Standard; Testing Personnel qualifications, High Complexity Testing.
Chemist I: Experience in a laboratory is preferred.
Chemist II: 3 years of laboratory experience required. Clinical laboratory experience preferred.
Must be able to visually distinguish colors. A color vision screening test is required prior to an offer of employment.
Preferred Qualifications:
Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative analytical chemistry; knowledge of high performance liquid chromatography; knowledge of enzymatic assays; knowledge of mass spectrometry; knowledge of quality control principles; knowledge of quality assurance; knowledge of method validation; Knowledge of mathematical functions and ratios; knowledge of laboratory safety and handling of chemicals, biological samples and laboratory equipment; knowledge of newborn screening blood collection techniques and precautions; Knowledge of computer operation principles; use of quality principles and tools; effective team skills; effective customer service skills; Interpersonal skills; ability to effectively teach and communicate with students and staff; effective writing skills.
Education:
At minimum, a Bachelor of Science degree chemical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution, is required.
An official (or copy of an official) transcript showing conferred degree will be required as a condition of employment.
For degrees earned outside of the United States, proof of qualification equivalency is required and must be performed by a nationally recognized organization such as the National Association Credential Evaluation Services, Inc. (NACES) (http://www.naces.org) or the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (http://www.aice-eval.org). Course by course review is required for candidates demonstrating ability to meet CLIA qualifications.
The candidate is responsible for all expenses related to acquiring and providing proof of qualifications.
How to Apply:
To begin the application process please click on the "Apply Now" button. You will need to upload the following documents:
1. A current resume.
2. A cover letter that addresses your qualifications, knowledge, skills, and abilities, or a past experience that would support your success in
the role.
Please note that there is only one attachment field. You must upload all your documents into the one attachment field.
Application reviewers will evaluate the materials you submit (your resume and cover letter) to identify qualified applicants who will advance in the recruitment process. Please ensure that your application is complete and submitted by the deadline ("apply by "date at the top of the posting) to be considered for this position.
WSLH does not sponsor work visas at the time of hire or anytime during employment for this position. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required Employment Eligibility Form I-9.
The selected applicant will be required to pass a criminal background check prior to an offer of employment.
Contact Information:
Please contact Kelsey Bailey, kelsey.bailey@slh.wisc.eduwith questions.
Institutional Statement on Diversity:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.
To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.
Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.

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About University of Wisconsin

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The University of Wisconsin, based in Madison, WI, US, functions in the educational industry and is a renowned and respected institution for higher education. Its official website is wisc.edu. Established in 1848, this public research university is recognized globally for its innovative approach to education, research, creativity, and public service. It embodies a strong commitment to academic freedom and academic excellence. As a major contributor to the Wisconsin Idea, it aims to accomplish its mission of generating well-rounded individuals who will contribute substantially to society, the local community, and the global economy.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

Year founded

2005