Vitacore Industries

Molecular Biologist/PCR/qPCR Specialist

Burnaby, British ColumbiaFull-time
CA$80,000 - CA$90,000 annually
About the Job
About Vitacore:
At Vitacore, we integrate cutting-edge research and technology with a profound commitment to sustainability and innovation. Established in 2020, Vitacore is driven by our mission to develop transformative products and services that address critical global issues, ensuring ethical practices and effective outcomes for the betterment of humankind and the planet. Our journey began with a focus on the healthcare sector, where we became leaders in manufacturing recycling single-use protective equipment. Today, we apply our expertise and innovative spirit to broader challenges, developing advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and innovative manufacturing processes that redefine what is possible across various industries.
 
About the Role:
Vitacore is seeking a highly skilled and driven Molecular Biologist (PCR/qPCR Specialist) to join our R&D team. 

We are developing a next-generation ultra-fast qPCR platform integrated with a custom-built AI systen, designed in-house to directly interpret qPCR signals, optimise assay performance, and accelerate decision-making. This is not a standard integration - our platform represents a fundamentally new approach to how qPCR data is generated, analysed, and applied. 

In this role, you will lead the design, optimisation, and execution of PCR/qPCR assays, while working closely with software developers and engineers to shape the interface between wet-lab experimentation and computational intelligence. 

This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of molecular biology, AI, and advanced diagnostics, where your contributions will directly influence the development of breakthrough technology. 
 
Responsibilities Include:
  • Design, develop, and optimize PCR and ultra-fast qPCR protocols tailored to our novel platform
  • Run, troubleshoot, and validate assays across multiple qPCR systems (e.g., Applied Biosystems, Bio-Rad, Agilent)
  • Generate high-quality datasets and annotate experimental outputs to support training and validation of in-house AI models
  • Collaborate with software developers and engineers to define key parameters, metadata structures, and edge cases critical to algorithm performance
  • Benchmark the performance of Vitacore’s qPCR + AI system against conventional workflows and identify opportunities for improvement
  • Document protocols, experimental results, and analyses with a high degree of rigor to ensure reproducibility and scalability
  • Contribute to troubleshooting, optimization, and continuous improvement of both experimental and computational workflows
  • Stay current with advancements in molecular biology, qPCR technologies, and computational analysis, bringing forward ideas that push innovation

Skills and Qualifications:
  • PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related field
  • Proven experience in designing and optimizing PCR/qPCR assays and protocols
  • Hands-on experience with multiple qPCR platforms
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex qPCR data and troubleshoot effectively
  • Interest in or experience working at the intersection of wet-lab science and computational/AI systems
  • Adaptable, resourceful, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-impact startup environment
  • Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across interdisciplinary teams
  • Bonus: Experience designing experiments to support machine learning or computational model development, and familiarity with data structuring, annotation, or workflow integration between lab and software teams

Compensation:
  • $80,000 – $90,000 annual salary, depending on experience.
  • Health & Dental benefits.
  • 3 weeks paid vacation.
  • Tuition Assistance Program.
  • Multiple company events throughout the year.
About Vitacore Industries
Vitacore Industries Inc. manufactures personal protective equipment for Canadian frontline workers, available on demand. Our facility houses state-of-the-art equipment to produce millions of respirators every month. Vitacore is committed to serving Canadians. All of our current and future PPE is made using a Canadian supply chain and quality Canadian materials.

Our main customers are in the Health Care Industry supporting our long-term growth and sustainability.