AGED Diagnostics is a diagnostics company leveraging genomic technologies to develop highly accurate blood-based tests for metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and liver fibrosis. MASLD is closely linked to metabolic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome, and spans a spectrum from simple steatosis to the more advanced inflammatory form, metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH). AGED’s diagnostic tools are designed to enable earlier disease detection and longitudinal monitoring, supporting clinical decision-making, reducing reliance on invasive procedures, and improving patient outcomes while lowering healthcare system costs.
AGED is currently conducting a 400+ patient, multi-site U.S. clinical trial to support biomarker discovery and verification for MASH and liver fibrosis. The study spans nine active clinical trial sites and underpins AGED’s ongoing research and development efforts.
You are a great fit for this role if you embody AGED Diagnostics’ core values:
- Intellectually Curious - You are a lifelong learner committed to synthesizing knowledge and diverse perspectives as the building blocks for growth.
- Audacious – You possess the zeal to be scientifically creative and forge new paths.
- Exothermic – You listen and lead with emotional intelligence, and work for those who work with you.
- Intentional – You think strategically and act deliberately to inform evidence-based decisions.
Position Description
Time Commitment: Part time position, 15-25 hours a week.
Compensation: Hourly rate.
Location: Bethesda, MD. In person is required.
Lab Technician Overview
AGED Diagnostics is seeking a Lab Technician to support laboratory and operational activities associated with our ongoing clinical trial and internal research and development efforts. The AGED team will provide training on all required procedures to support role onboarding and professional development. This role includes supporting assembly and inventory management of clinical trial sample collection kits and laboratory materials, assisting with laboratory workflows such as plasma isolation and cell-free DNA extraction, providing general research and documentation support including proofreading standard operating procedures (SOPs), and, as appropriate, additional activities. The Lab Technician will work under the guidance of the Lab Director and Scientist II and is expected to support a cross-functional team on specific projects with clearly defined goals and deliverables.
Requirements
The ideal candidate will have the following:
Qualifications
● Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biotechnology, genomics or a related field required; graduate students currently enrolled in a relevant program are encouraged to apply and would be ideal for this position
● At least one full year of prior experience working in a laboratory setting is required[MT1]
● Hands-on wet lab experience strongly is required
● Demonstrated proficiency in pipetting and micropipetting, including independent use of multiple pipettes for distinct laboratory applications is a requirement[JK2]
● Experience performing manual plasma isolation, DNA and/or RNA extraction, nucleic acid quality control (QC), fluorometric assays or spectrophotometric methods, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays is encouraged
● Understanding of contamination-control best practices (e.g., unidirectional workflow, PPE changes, and workspace decontamination) is encouraged
● Familiarity with handling low-input DNA
● Working knowledge of core laboratory concepts, laboratory safety practices, and applicable regulatory requirements
● Demonstrated ability for emotional resilience and a history of working cooperatively and respectfully with internal and external stakeholders.
● Growth mindset with a keen focus of accountability for achieving results.
● Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with an ability to drive processes from conception through completion.
Roles and Responsibilities
The R&D Technician will be located in AGED lab out of Bethesda, MD and work part time.
- Support with kit assembly for clinical trial sites
- Assembly of patient blood collection kits for clinical trial sites in accordance with established protocols
- Work closely with the Lab Director and Scientist II to assemble, label, and prepare kits for distribution
- Print and apply labels for blood collection kits and blood collection tubes
- Coordinate shipment of kits by preparing materials and delivering shipments to FedEx or UPS
- Maintain accurate records for kit inventory, shipment tracking, and laboratory materials
- Communicate effectively with team members to ensure smooth operations and compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Complete all required training and adhere strictly to AGED’s established procedures at all times
- Support Daily Lab Operations:
- Support daily laboratory workflows and assigned projects under the direction of the Lab Director and Scientist II.
- Manage inventory of incoming patient samples, including logging, labeling, and tracking within laboratory records
- Manage inventory of laboratory materials related to kit assembly, plasma isolation, and cell-free DNA extraction
- Maintain accurate written and electronic records for laboratory materials, sample tracking, and internal communication
- Receive training on and perform laboratory protocols, including plasma isolation and cell-free DNA extraction, in accordance with established procedures
- Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of biological samples and hazardous materials in compliance with laboratory safety requirements
- Proofread and assist with updates to standard operating procedures (SOPs) for laboratory processes
- Provide general support for additional laboratory-based projects as needed
- Perform Laboratory Procedures:
o Perform tasks independently after training, while seeking guidance when needed.
o Routine operation of centrifuges, pipettes, thermocyclers, and DNA quantification equipment
o Perform routine DNA extraction and quantification following established SOPs
o Prepare reagents, consumables, and workspaces required for plasma isolation, DNA extraction, and DNA quantification
o Evaluate DNA quality and quantity to ensure samples meet internal QC thresholds
o Document extraction results, QC metrics, and any deviations in laboratory records
o Maintain cleanliness and organization of plasma isolation and DNA extraction work areas, ensuring compliance with contamination-control practices
o Troubleshoot basic issues related to extraction workflows and escalate concerns to the senior laboratory staff when needed
4. Additional Requirements:
The successful candidate must:
- Be highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Be open to learning new techniques, procedures, and technologies relevant to laboratory operations.
- Take detailed notes and documentation on methods and data analysis.
- Have excellent communication skills with the ability to convey information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Demonstrate trustworthiness, integrity, and a commitment to transparency in all aspects of work.
- Have the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to adapt quickly to changing research priorities, experimental procedures, and project timelines[MT3]
- Maintain stringent standards for quality, identifying any issues which might adversely impact the quality of test results and/or employee safety, and communicating these to the Lab Director as necessary for resolution.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift 20-30 lbs.
How to Apply: To apply, please email your resume, cover letter, and compensation requirements to AGED’s CEO, Rachel Zayas
Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour
Application Question(s):
- If you have micro-pipetting experience, please describe the applications (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR, QC assays).
Experience:
- hands-on wet lab: 2 years (Required)
- pipetting: 1 year (Required)
Work Location: In person
