1

Clinical Assay Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scientist, Assay Development

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

RareCyte is looking for an Assay Development Scientist based in our Seattle, WA office. The ... Perform testing, analysis and reporting of clinical trial samples in liquid biopsy and spatial ...

Scientist, Assay Development

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

RareCyte is looking for an Assay Development Scientist based in our Seattle, WA office. The ... Perform testing, analysis and reporting of clinical trial samples in liquid biopsy and spatial ...

RareCyte is looking for an Assay Development Scientist based in our Seattle, WA office. The ... Perform testing, analysis and reporting of clinical trial samples in liquid biopsy and spatial ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Clinical Assay Development information

See salary details

$36K

$94.3K

$143.5K

How much do clinical assay development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for clinical assay development in the United States is $94,314.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,500.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is clinical assay development?

Clinical assay development is the process of designing, validating, and implementing laboratory tests that measure specific biomarkers or analytes in clinical samples, such as blood or tissue. These assays are crucial for diagnosing diseases, monitoring patient progress, and supporting clinical trials for new drugs or therapies. Professionals in this field work to ensure that assays are accurate, reliable, and compliant with regulatory standards. The process often involves collaboration between scientists, clinicians, and regulatory experts to bring new diagnostic tools from concept to clinical use.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in clinical assay development?

To thrive in Clinical Assay Development, you need a solid background in molecular biology, biochemistry, or related life sciences, often supported by an advanced degree and laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory automation, statistical analysis software, and regulatory standards such as GLP or CLIA is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong collaboration skills are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate assay design, reliable data generation, and compliance with industry standards for successful clinical outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in clinical assay development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Clinical Assay Development often encounter challenges such as ensuring assay reproducibility, managing strict regulatory requirements, and troubleshooting unexpected results. Effective communication with cross-functional teams—including research scientists, quality assurance, and regulatory affairs—is essential to quickly resolve issues and maintain project timelines. Staying current with evolving industry standards and investing in ongoing training can help overcome these hurdles and ensure the success of assay development projects.

What is the difference between Clinical Assay Development vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectClinical Assay DevelopmentLaboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in life sciences, specialized training in assay developmentAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firmsHospital labs, research facilities, diagnostic labs
Job FocusDesigning, optimizing, and validating assays for clinical usePerforming routine lab tests and sample processing

Clinical Assay Development involves creating and validating diagnostic tests, requiring specialized knowledge and advanced credentials. Laboratory Technicians focus on executing established tests and sample handling. While both roles work in laboratory settings, their responsibilities and expertise levels differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Clinical Assay Development jobs?

For Clinical Assay Development jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Clinical Assay Development job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,314 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Scientist II, In-Vitro & Nonclinical Assay Development

Frederick, MD • On-site

Socket.dev
Network Security • 1 - 10 employees

$35 - $44/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Tonix Pharmaceuticals* is a fully integrated, commercial-stage biotechnology company focused on central nervous system (CNS) and immunology treatments in areas of high unmet medical need. TONMYA® (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablets 2.8 mg) is the first new treatment for fibromyalgia in adults in more than 15 years. Tonix’s CNS commercial infrastructure supports its marketed products, including its acute migraine products, Zembrace® Symtouch® (sumatriptan injection 3 mg) and Tosymra® (sumatriptan nasal spray 10 mg). Tonix is investigating TONMYA® in Phase 2 clinical trials to evaluate its potential in major depressive disorder and acute stress disorder/acute stress reaction. Tonix is also advancing a pipeline of immunology programs, including TNX-4800, a Phase 2 ready long-acting human anti-Borrelia OspA monoclonal antibody (mAb) for the prevention of Lyme disease in the U.S., and TNX-1500, a Phase 2 ready third‑generation CD40 ligand inhibitor for the prevention of kidney transplant rejection. In addition, the Company is progressing TNX-2900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin), which is Phase 2 ready for the treatment of Prader‑Willi syndrome, a rare disease. To learn more, visit www.tonixpharma.com and follow the Company on LinkedIn and X.

*Tonix’s product development candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics; their efficacy and safety have not been established and have not been approved for any indication.

Zembrace SymTouch and Tosymra are registered trademarks of Tonix Medicines. TONMYA is a registered trademark of Tonix Pharma Limited. All other marks are property of their respective owners.

Job Summary

Scientist II will support Tonix Pharmaceuticals’ preclinical research programs through the development, optimization, and execution of in vitro and nonclinical assays. The role will contribute to translational research using cell-based assays, DMPK/ADME assays, 3D cell culture and organoid systems, and other nonclinical models to evaluate therapeutic candidates. The scientist will work collaboratively across discovery and development programs and generate high-quality, reproducible data to support program decisions.

Essential Functions
  • Develop, optimize, and execute in vitro cell‑based and biochemical assays to support drug discovery and preclinical development programs.
  • Perform and support DMPK/ADME assays, including permeability, protein binding, metabolic or CYP‑related assays, cytotoxicity, and other screening assays as appropriate.
  • Develop and evaluate 3D cell culture, spheroid, and organoid‑based assay systems for translational and nonclinical studies.
  • Support the development and execution of nonclinical assays and models for evaluation of therapeutic efficacy, pharmacology, safety, and mechanism of action.
  • Design experiments, develop and optimize protocols, analyze data, troubleshoot assays, and document results in laboratory records and technical reports.
  • Maintain mammalian cell culture systems, including established cell lines and primary or specialized cell systems as needed for project‑specific assays.
  • Apply molecular, biochemical, imaging, and viability‑based assay methods, including techniques such as RT‑PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, luminescence‑based assays, microscopy, and related analytical readouts.
  • Work collaboratively with internal scientists and external partners/CROs to support preclinical and DMPK studies.
  • Prepare data summaries, presentations, protocols, reports, and other documentation supporting research programs and regulatory or development activities.
  • Maintain accurate records and perform work in accordance with applicable laboratory, quality, and safety procedures.
Necessary Skills and Abilities
  • Strong hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture and in vitro assay development.
  • Experience designing, optimizing, troubleshooting, and interpreting cell‑based, biochemical, or translational assays.
  • Familiarity with DMPK/ADME assay concepts and laboratory methods is preferred.
  • Experience with 3D culture systems, spheroids, organoids, or other advanced in vitro models is preferred.
  • Experience supporting nonclinical or preclinical drug development studies.
  • Proficiency with common molecular and biochemical laboratory techniques and quantitative data analysis.
  • Strong experimental planning, problem‑solving, technical writing, presentation, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in multidisciplinary project teams.
Educational Requirements
  • Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related life sciences discipline; with 2+ years of relevant experience or an M.S. with 4+ years of relevant research experience.
Experience Requirements
  • Relevant hands‑on research experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, CRO, government, or academic research environments.
  • Experience with in vitro pharmacology, assay development, DMPK/ADME, 3D culture/organoid models, or nonclinical research is preferred.
  • Experience generating reproducible experimental data and communicating results to multidisciplinary teams.
Salary Range

$100,000 — $140,000 USD

*Please note that Tonix does not offer sponsorship for this role.

Compensation & Benefits

Tonix provides a comprehensive compensation and benefits package which includes:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, Basic and Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance, Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Account, and Employee Assistance Programs
  • Pet Insurance
  • Retirement Savings 401k with company match and annual discretionary stock options
  • Generous Paid Time Off, Sick Time, & Paid Holidays
  • Career Development and Training

Tonix provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetics, or any other characteristic protected by law. In addition to federal law requirements, Tonix complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfers, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Tonix expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic, information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

#J-18808-Ljbffr