Staff Scientist

Craif is a rapidly growing Japanese biotech startup with a commercially successful diagnostics business, generating over $1,400,000 in monthly revenue through partnerships with more than 2000 medical institutions in Japan. Leveraging our cutting‑edge urine‑based miRNA assay platform for early cancer detection, we are now expanding our operations to the United States.

We are seeking a dedicated and innovative Staff Scientist who is passionate about building both technologies and laboratory infrastructure from the ground up as we establish a new U.S. based research facility.

The Staff Scientist will play a key role in developing, optimizing, and validating miRNA‑based assays using liquid samples, with a strong focus on urine. This role involves executing complex wet‑lab experiments, establishing laboratory capabilities, and collaborating closely with scientific teams in both the U.S. and Japan. This is a full‑time, onsite position located in San Diego, CA.

• Lead and perform wet‑lab experiments involving miRNA assays from urine samples.
• Develop, optimize, and validate assay protocols for early cancer detection workflows.
• Design experimental plans, execute assays with high precision, and interpret results with scientific rigor.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges, identify root causes, and propose data‑driven solutions.
• Help establish and maintain the laboratory, including equipment setup, calibration, and daily maintenance.
• Manage reagent inventory to ensure smooth laboratory operations.
• Document protocols, results, and observations accurately and consistently.

• A degree in Biological Sciences or a related field, and one of the following:
  • 8+ years of relevant industry experience with a Bachelor’s degree
  • 5+ years of relevant industry experience with a Master’s degree
  • 2+ years of relevant industry experience with a PhD.
• 3+ years of hands‑on experience with next‑generation sequencing (NGS), preferably using Illumina platforms.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong ownership mindset and motivation to advance diagnostic assay development.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, rapidly evolving startup environment.

• Proficiency in RNA handling and NGS library preparation.
• Experience working in a startup environment.
• Experience with liquid biopsy workflows.

We are looking for a scientist who is:

• Hands‑on and proactive
• Entrepreneurial, adaptable, and resourceful
• Excited to build a new lab and diagnostic technologies from scratch
• Mission‑driven and collaborative

The estimated base salary range for this position is $125,000 – $160,000 (USD).