Clinical Laboratory Supervisor

Position Overview

Beken Bio is a biotech startup on a mission to revolutionize early cancer detection. Our flagship program focuses on a novel liquid biopsy test for ovarian cancer using extracellular vesicles (EVs). As we move our diagnostic test from R&D into the critical validation and commercialization phase, we are building a nimble, high-impact team to make precision oncology accessible to patients.

We are seeking a General Supervisor with a blend of technical expertise, leadership experience, and entrepreneurial spirit. This is a hands-on, multifaceted role in a dynamic startup environment where you will oversee the transition of a diagnostic test from research into a fully validated, CLIA-certified laboratory-developed test (LDT). The right candidate will embrace the challenge of helping to shape laboratory operations, oversee clinical validation, and contribute to building scalable processes in a fast-moving, innovative company.

• Lead the technical operations of the laboratory during the critical transition from R&D to clinical validation of a new diagnostic assay.
• Supervise and mentor laboratory testing personnel, ensuring competency, adherence to CLIA regulations, and high-quality results.
• Implement and maintain laboratory procedures, quality control, and quality assurance protocols.
• Oversee the validation, verification, and documentation of new laboratory-developed tests in compliance with CLIA and state regulations.
• Collaborate with the Laboratory Director and R&D team to optimize protocols, streamline workflows, and troubleshoot assay development challenges.
• Contribute to regulatory readiness, including preparation for inspections and audits.
• Participate in strategic planning for laboratory expansion, automation, and scale-up as the company grows.
• Wear multiple hats: participate in hands-on bench work, process design, and operational planning as needed.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a laboratory science (Clinical Laboratory Science, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field).
• Experience:
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in a high-complexity clinical laboratory setting.
  • Demonstrated experience supervising lab staff and implementing laboratory procedures.
  • Experience with assay validation, clinical testing, or LDT development is highly desirable.
• Certifications:
  • Certified Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS/MLS) through a recognized body (ASCP, AMT, or equivalent).
  • Louisiana State Licensure (or eligibility to obtain)
• Skills:
  • Strong understanding of CLIA regulations and quality management systems.
  • Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Comfort working in a dynamic startup environment, wearing multiple hats, and contributing across operational, technical, and strategic aspects.

• Master’s degree in a laboratory or molecular diagnostics field.
• Experience transitioning assays from R&D to clinical use, including clinical validation studies.
• Familiarity with molecular diagnostics, oncology testing, and lab automation.

• Opportunity to lead and shape the clinical operations of a high-impact startup in early cancer detection.
• Hands-on, entrepreneurial environment where your expertise directly affects patient outcomes.
• Work closely with a passionate team of scientists and clinicians committed to innovation.
• Competitive compensation package and the potential for equity participation.