About VAir
VAir is a French medtech start-up developing the next generation of in vitro diagnostic (IVD) medical devices that can rapidly detect respiratory infections from exhaled air. Our technology is based on proprietary biosensors and aims to transform the way respiratory infections are diagnosed. It is faster than RT-PCR and culture, more accurate than antigen tests and completely non-invasive.
Join our team incubated at the Drahi-X Novation Center at École Polytechnique and take part in our mission to make respiratory infection diagnostics faster, smarter, and more accessible to everyone. Supported by Bpifrance, EPFL Innovation Park, WILCO, and Medicen, we are now accelerating our R&D efforts to develop our first functional prototype and prepare for industrialization.
The role
We are looking for a passionate and experienced R&D Scientist to join our founding team and lead the development of our innovative biosensor platform. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of microbiology, biosensor engineering, and microfluidics in a dynamic startup environment.
You will play a key role in transitioning our technology from proof of concept to a fully integrated working prototype, working closely with our CEO and CTO.
Key responsibilities
- Design and manufacture microfluidic systems for collecting, concentrating, and transporting samples to biosensors.
- Lead the development and optimization of our microfluidic biosensor platform.
- Develop and validate surface functionalization protocols for pathogen detection.
- Perform experimental validation in spiked matrices and progress towards testing on clinical samples.
- Collaborate with external partners (academic laboratories, industrial partners) to accelerate technological development.
- Document experimental work, prepare technical reports, and contribute to patent filings and scientific publications.
- Monitor scientific developments and propose innovative approaches to technical challenges.
Required qualifications
- PhD (ideally) or Engineering Degree/Master’s Degree (5 years of higher education) in Biotechnology, Bioengineering, Biophysics, or related fields
- 3+ years of relevant R&D experience (including PhD, if applicable) in biosensors, microfluidics applied to biosystems, or related fields
- Expertise in microfluidic design, manufacturing and integration
- Independent, proactive, and rigorous with excellent organizational skills
- Creative and proactive with a strong sense of initiative and innovation
- Fluent English (written and spoken)
Nice to have
- Knowledge of embedded electronics and sensor integration
- Experience in MedTech and In-Vitro Diagnostics.
- Practical experience in microbiology and molecular biology techniques
- Knowledge of regulatory standards (ISO 13485, CE marking)
- Previous experience in a startup or dynamic R&D environment
- Project and technical team management experience
- Fluent French
What we offer
- A project with a significant impact on global health
- A dynamic and collaborative environment at the heart of the French innovation ecosystem
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities at École Polytechnique’s Drahi-X Novation Center
- Significant responsibilities and real autonomy
- Rewarding compensation package with extensive perks
How to apply
Send your CV and cover letter in PDF format to: careers@vair.dev
VAir is committed to diversity and equal opportunities.