Senior Group Leader (NGS/Automation)

Job Title:        Senior Group Leader (NGS/Automation) Reports to:      Associate Director FLSA Class:    Exempt Introduction to Job Post: The Senior Group Leader role reports to the Associate Director and is responsible for managing the detailed activities of a team of scientists (including Scientist I, II, and III) and research associates in developing single-cell, massively parallel molecular biology assays for Takara Bio’s automation platforms. The Senior Group Leader works closely with Product Management to propose new product ideas and identify and implement opportunities to expand the RNA-sequencing automation portfolio.  The Senior Group Leader is expected to demonstrate a high degree of autonomy in setting and meeting their team’s technical and business goals. The Senior Group Leader role is office-based. Approximately 5% travel, including overnight and international travel, may be required. Essential Functions: Plans, coordinates, and monitors timely execution and completion of various research projects by managing the detailed activities of a scientific team of research associates and scientists. Ensures work conducted by group is of high quality, exhibiting good experimental design, data summary and interpretation. Ensures that the group members maintain complete and accurate records in the relevant product development databases.  Guides junior and senior scientists in the group through the product development process, including maintenance of the schedule, design of specifications, transfer to manufacturing and drafting of related documentation. Actively mentors and trains group members in good experimental design and analysis. May mentor scientists to manage research associates who report to them. Works closely and independently, through regular communication, with Product Managers to understand market trends and competition relevant to product line(s) managed. Actively influences product line direction by acting as a technical and market expert. Generates new ideas and proposes plans for development of a product line as a whole and proactively works to obtain Product Managers’ support. Demonstrates ownership for the success and growth of product line(s); working with Product Managers, Operations, and other departments to ensure smooth development, launch and support of products within stated deadlines. Develops and maintains an external network of key researchers and scientific advisors in the academic/industrial community, actively contributing to corporate and academic partnerships & collaborations. Serves as an expert resource to R&D, Product Management and other departments supporting their success in reaching goals of the whole organization. Supports Sales and Technical Support representatives on technical matters. Represents R&D at scientific meetings in front of customers and/or collaborators, including presenting seminars on TBUSA products in area of expertise. This position has supervisory responsibilities. Education/Certification, Experience, and Competencies: Typically requires a Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (molecular biology, biochemistry, biology, etc.) followed by 12+ years of a mix of academic and industrial experience. Experience working in a cross disciplinary field with engineers and bioinformatic scientists to develop NGS assays and technologies on automation platforms: microfluidic, droplet, or cartesian. Experience with single cell molecular biology assays are desired. Experience managing the work of PhD level Scientists and Research Associates. Highly effective analytical, problem solving and judgment skills, with demonstrated ability to mentor these skills in others. Shows willingness to take risks when not all the information is available. Takes ownership for decisions. Ability to mentor management skills in others. Consistent success in developing commercially viable products. Strong understanding of the product development process from initial proof of concept through transfer to manufacturing. Detailed and broad knowledge of scientific techniques and applications. Successful track record of initiating and maintaining external collaborations. Recognized as a key influencer with academic and industry researchers within their area of expertise. Good knowledge of the biomedical research industry. Good knowledge of U.S. intellectual property laws. Collaborative personality with excellent interpersonal skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills. AAP/EEO Statement: Takara Bio USA, Inc. does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.   Disclaimer: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.