Manager, Product & Program

About Karius

Karius is a life science, venture-backed clinical metagenomics company, focused on elevating patient care through microbial insights. We are committed to advancing diagnostic science and technology to optimize the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. Through the use of genomics and AI, we are driven to improve the diagnostic landscape for infectious diseases. Karius delivers unprecedented diagnostic insight detecting microbial cell-free DNA circulating in the body to assist physicians to make rapid treatment decisions.

Position Summary

We are looking for a Product and Program Manager with deep experience in laboratory diagnostics, with direct exposure to molecular or microbiology lab operations. In this role, you will drive cross-functional initiatives that connect laboratory innovation with clinical and commercial needs. You will be responsible for shaping product development strategy while ensuring seamless program execution, bringing diagnostic solutions to market with both speed and quality.

Why Should You Join Us?

Karius aims to conquer infectious diseases through innovations around genomic sequencing and machine learning. The company’s platform is already delivering unprecedented insights into the microbial landscape, providing clinicians with a comprehensive test capable of identifying more than a thousand pathogens directly from blood, and helping industry accelerate the development of therapeutic solutions. The products Karius offers today are some of the most advanced solutions available to physicians who aim to deliver better care to many otherwise ineffectively treated patients. Our tests are the result of some incredible work done by our scientists, statisticians, engineers, and physicians, all driven by the same mission. You, as part of the Karius team, will be able to see how directly your work has a life-changing impact on people, and at scale.

Reports to:  VP, Product and Program Management 

Location: Redwood City, CA (Hybrid) or Remote (USA)

Primary Responsibilities

Product Management

• Facilitate the full product lifecycle process, from ideation through development, launch, and post-market evaluation.

• Define product requirements and roadmaps informed by user feedback, scientific insights, and regulatory considerations.

• Translate complex laboratory workflows and diagnostic needs into clear, actionable product strategies.

• Partner with R&D, Medical Affairs, Engineering, and Commercial teams to deliver lab-ready, scalable, and compliant diagnostic solutions.

• Serve as the voice of the customer and laboratory end-user in all product discussions.

Program Management

• Drive alignment across functions, including Laboratory Operations, Clinical Affairs, Quality, Regulatory, and Software.

• Proactively identify and mitigate risks throughout the program lifecycle.

• Develop and oversee project plans, budgets, timelines, and deliverables for product development programs.

• Lead cross-functional meetings and provide clear communication of program progress, risks, and outcomes to leadership.

What’s Fun About the Job?

Karius is operating at the edge of what is now known to be possible in infectious disease diagnostics. With that, comes a wave of new and incredible challenges and opportunities. To deliver on that value, you will be tapping into some of the most advanced technologies, architecting and innovating where the current solutions simply don't suffice. You will get to see how much your work really matters.

Travel: Travel required up to 20%. 

Physical Requirements

Subject to extended periods of sitting and/or standing, vision to monitor and moderate noise levels. Work is generally performed in an office, lab or clinical environment.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Biomedical Sciences, or related discipline; Master’s or Ph.D. strongly preferred.

• Proven track record with 3-5 years of product and/or program management experience, within the diagnostic, preferably within the Laboratory Developed Test (LDT) or consulting environments, at the intersection of science, technology, and healthcare.

• Proven expertise in laboratory workflows, molecular assay development, and the successful implementation of diagnostic testing solutions.

• Demonstrated success navigating regulated environments (e.g., CLIA, CAP, FDA, ISO 13485), with experience leading cross-functional teams and driving the launch of innovative, lab-based diagnostic products in life sciences or biotech.

Personal Qualifications

• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to distill data and present clear insights to stakeholders.

• Proactive, self-starter mindset with a track record of driving results.

• Strong project management expertise, including building schedules, anticipating risks, and mitigating timeline delays.

• Effective both independently and as a highly collaborative team player.

• Thrives in fast-paced, dynamic (startup) environments.

• Advanced communication and analytical capabilities, with demonstrated success solving complex and ambiguous challenges.

• Passionate, purpose-driven, and deeply aligned with Karius’ mission.

Disclaimer

The above job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Responsibilities and duties may change or be adjusted to meet the needs of the company, and additional duties may be assigned as necessary. The job description is subject to change at any time at the discretion of Karius.

Equal Opportunity Employer 

At Karius, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace and provide equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees and are committed to honor and invest in the full diversity of people, in our hiring, recruiting and development of employees across the Company.  All qualified applicants for employment are encouraged to apply and will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity and gender expression (including transgender individuals who are transitioning, have transitioned, or are perceived to be transitioning to the gender with which they identify), religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application due to a disability, please contact us at [email protected] and we will accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities.