Associate Director of Science (Forensic Toxicology)

https://careers.questdiagnostics.com/job/lenexa/associate-director-of-science-forensic-toxicology/38852/92883142688

The Associate Director of Science is responsible for the direction, planning, and management of R&D scientists focused on validation studies and new product development. This role ensures all projects align with departmental strategy, meet stringent regulatory requirements, and are delivered with scientific excellence. Key responsibilities include providing expert technical counsel to senior management, supervising a dedicated team of researchers, and maintaining accountability for the quality and timeliness of all laboratory deliverables.

Responsibilities:

• Direct and provide specialized technical oversight for forensic toxicology projects, ensuring all methodologies meet applicable regulatory standards. 
• Design and validate analytical methods (e.g., LC-MS/MS, GC-MS) for the detection and quantification of controlled substances and their metabolites. 
• Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies into the production laboratory to improve throughput and detection sensitivity. 
• Prepare and review technical SOPs, assay validation reports, and forensic data packages to ensure full compliance with regulatory and accreditation bodies. 
• Serve as a technical expert for production laboratory workflows, troubleshooting instrumentation issues to maintain uninterrupted testing services. 
• Collaborate with senior management to align method development projects with company priorities and client needs in the drug testing market. 
• Lead project presentations and demonstrations for customers or regulatory auditors. 
• Supervise and mentor direct reports, including hiring, training in forensic standards, and performance goal setting for supervised staff. 
• Represent the organization at scientific meetings, presenting new research or validated technologies to the forensic community and partners.

Required Work Experience:  

• Minimum of 5–8 years of experience in a high-volume forensic toxicology or clinical reference laboratory. 
• Proven track record in the development and validation of methods using LC-MS/MS and GC-MS for the detection of drugs of abuse and their metabolites. 
• Familiarity with SAMHSA, CAP-FDT, or ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards and experience maintaining compliance within these frameworks. 
• At least 3 years of experience in a supervisory or management role, including interviewing, hiring, training, and setting performance goals for VXSHUYLVHG staff. 
• Demonstrated experience in authoring SOPs, conducting assay validations, and forensic data packages for medium to large-scale projects.

Preferred Work Experience:  

• Experience providing technical support or expert testimony for legal proceedings or administrative hearings related to drug testing results. 
• Certification: Professional certification through the American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT) or National Registry of Certified Chemists (NRCC) is highly desirable.