Molecular Virology Project Leader

Responsibilities and Key Duties

• Lead and oversee the Molecular Virology Team, ensuring efficient operations and alignment with departmental goals.
• Manage project planning and execution, including establishing priorities, timelines, resource allocation, and budget oversight.
• Maintain and oversee the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for Molecular Virology testing, case tracking, and data integrity.
• Ensure the delivery of accurate, reliable, and timely diagnostic test results to internal and external stakeholders.
• Facilitate team coordination and accountability by leading regular meetings, monitoring progress, and aligning activities with established objectives and deadlines.
• Address and resolve operational, technical, and cross-functional challenges to support effective laboratory performance and collaboration.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop staff, fostering technical expertise, professional growth, and a positive team culture.
• Ensure compliance, consistency, and quality in laboratory operations through oversight of staff training programs, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality management practices.
• Establish and maintain strategic collaborations with academic, research, and industry partners to support the acquisition and evaluation of novel reagents, pathogen isolates, technologies, disease models, and diagnostic assays.
• Participate in professional and scientific conferences, workshops, and meetings to remain current on emerging scientific developments, technologies, and industry best practices.
• Present scientific data and research findings at professional meetings and industry events to enhance organizational visibility and support the promotion of company research and products.
• Collaborate with CEVA's global scientific and technical teams on international projects, fostering knowledge exchange, technical alignment, and the sharing of best practices across the organization.
• Provide technical training and support during the transfer of technologies, methods, and associated data to Sales and Marketing, Production, Quality Control, and other operational departments.
• Lead and support cross-functional projects related to R&D, Industrial Operations, and Scientific/Product Support activities, ensuring timely execution and achievement of project objectives.
• Prepare, review, and approve scientific protocols, reports, and other technical documentation to support research, development, and operational functions.
• Develop and deliver technical training materials and educational programs for internal stakeholders to ensure knowledge transfer and effective implementation of new technologies, processes, and procedures.

Core Competencies

• Shape solutions out of complexity: Analyzes complex situations and determines the most effective approach based on available information and changing priorities.
• Client focus: Understands the needs and priorities of internal and external customers.
• Collaborate with empathy: Works cooperatively with colleagues and actively supports team goals and decisions.
• Engage and develop: Applies scientific expertise, experience, and critical thinking to evaluate current situations and identify effective solutions.
• Drive ambition and accountability: Takes ownership of responsibilities and consistently delivers high-quality work.
• Influence others: Communicates expectations, goals, and technical information clearly and effectively.

Technical / Functional Competencies

• Molecular Biology: Advanced knowledge of molecular biology principles and techniques, including next-generation sequencing (NGS), nucleic acid extraction, PCR/RT-PCR, assay development, and other modern molecular diagnostic methodologies.
• Virology: Strong understanding of viral diseases affecting swine and poultry, including pathogen biology, epidemiology, and disease diagnostics. Demonstrated expertise in the design, validation, implementation, and interpretation of molecular and virological diagnostic assays.
• Project Management: Proven ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple projects concurrently. Skilled in resource allocation, timeline management, risk mitigation, and delivering project objectives within established deadlines and budgets.
• Technical Writing: Proficient in preparing scientific reports, regulatory submissions, USDA documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), validation reports, and peer-reviewed publications with accuracy, clarity, and technical rigor.
• Independent Work and Continuous Learning: Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercise sound scientific judgment, and proactively expand technical knowledge to stay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and scientific advancements.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex scientific and technical information to diverse audiences, including laboratory staff, stakeholders, regulatory agencies, and leadership teams.
• Leadership and Team Development: Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor staff, foster collaboration, and promote a culture of scientific excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Data Analysis and Interpretation: Skilled in analyzing, interpreting, and communicating complex scientific data to support diagnostic, research, and operational decision-making.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related field.
• M.S. in Molecular Biology or related discipline preferred, with 10+ years of relevant experience.
• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in science-related field, with 15+ years of experience in diagnostic.
• Extensive experience in veterinary diagnostics, including the application of molecular biology and virology techniques for the detection, characterization, and analysis of pathogens affecting avian, swine, and bovine species.
• Demonstrated expertise in the development, validation, and implementation of molecular diagnostic assays to support disease surveillance, outbreak investigations, and animal health programs.
• Proven track record of leading complex scientific and operational projects from conception through completion.
• Experienced in developing project plans, establishing priorities and timelines, coordinating cross-functional teams, managing resources and budgets, and ensuring project deliverables align with organizational objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Strong experience managing laboratory data and information systems, including Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Skilled in maintaining data integrity, ensuring accurate recordkeeping, analyzing complex datasets, and leveraging data to support diagnostic operations, decision-making, quality management, and research initiatives.
• Experience leading laboratory teams and coordinating diagnostic and research activities in a regulated environment.
• Demonstrated ability to optimize workflows, resolve technical and operational challenges, and ensure the delivery of high-quality scientific and diagnostic services.
• Knowledge of quality management systems, laboratory accreditation requirements, and regulatory standards.
• Experience developing and maintaining documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), validation records, and technical reports to support compliance and continuous improvement initiatives.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Capable of lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds.
• Relocation Required: Must relocate to the Kansas City area, specifically the Lenexa, Kansas Laboratory.
• Work Environment: Primarily based in a laboratory setting.
• Travel Required: Position involves up to 10%.