Job Title

As Kalogon's Research Lead, you'll architect and oversee our research ecosystem, ensuring methodological rigor as you manage a range from user testing to clinical validation. You'll collaborate with everyone in the organization from Product and R&D to Sales & Marketing.This role blends strategic vision with hands-on execution, requiring equal expertise in clinical protocol design and cross-functional collaboration to translate insights into tangible product advancements.Key ResponsibilitiesHelp to drive the business by ideating, testing, and validating unique claims that can be published or shared publiclyInfluence product direction through user research, beta testing, and claims researchSupport partner work with research to underscore product efficacy or to gather key stakeholder feedbackLead survey & evaluation of our Air Force cushion used in test and operational flights including the formal SBIR reporting requirementsSocialize research findings and ensure team members can self-support by creating tools to access your researchBalance long-horizon clinical validation with short-term product development needsIdentify and establish relationships with potential research partners including clinics, universities, and rehabilitation centersCoordinate multi-site studies with external partners, managing communication and ensuring protocol adherenceCreate lean research methodologies that deliver actionable insights without unnecessary overheadConduct hands-on user research from recruitment through implementation and analysisRun beta testing programs independently, from participant selection to feedback integrationDevelop and execute IRB protocols with minimal guidance and maximum efficiencyManage project timelines and resource needs within startup constraintsTranslate technical findings into actionable insights for both clinical and non-clinical marketsQualificationsMaster's degree or higher in rehabilitation science, biomedical engineering, clinical research, life sciences, or related fieldHands-on experience with user research methodologies and quick-turn usability testingExperience managing clinical research projects with minimal supervisionProven ability to navigate IRB processes efficientlyTrack record of successfully identifying and establishing research partnershipsExperience coordinating studies across multiple sites or with external collaboratorsDemonstrated success working in resource-constrained environmentsSelf-starter mentality with exceptional time management skillsAbility to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders from clinicians to investorsExperience with data analysis tools and research documentationUnderstanding of regulatory requirements for medical devices at a startup scaleMust-Have TraitsCreative problem-solver who can determine the right research approach for the desired outcomesAdept at creating strong internal relationshipsComfortable with ambiguity and changing prioritiesNetworking skills to identify and engage potential research partnersAbility to independently prioritize research needs without extensive guidanceResourcefulness in finding research solutions without dedicated staffPassion for both scientific validity and practical applicationComfort switching between deeply technical and highly accessible communicationEnthusiasm for the startup journey including its challenges and rewardsNice-to-Have ExperiencePrevious work in early-stage startupsEstablished connections in clinical rehabilitation settingsExperience developing research protocols with limited resourcesBackground in both clinical and commercial product testingHistory of successful grant writing to fund research initiativesConnections within rehabilitation clinical communitiesHas established Scientific Advisory Boards (long term goal!)Know something about seating, sitting, or buttsWhat We OfferOpportunity to shape our research approach from the ground upSignificant autonomy and ownership over the research functionDirect impact on product development and company strategyKalogon offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Other benefits include:Equity401k with matching20 days off per year5 all-team holidays, 3 floating holidaysCompany InfoKalogon is a venture-backed small business based in Melbourne, Florida, composed of top engineering talent from SpaceX, NASA, and Siemens. Our mission is to eliminate the stresses of sitting and improve health through inventive seating technology.Kalogon's flagship medical product is a customized smart cushion, Orbiter Med, that relieves pain and fatigue experienced by individuals who use wheelchairs. We have three other products in the medical space: Bondar (back support), Booster (smart cushion accessory), and our original Orbiter (smart cushion).Beyond healthcare, we're expanding into defense and aviation with three U.S. Air Force Direct to Phase II SBIR contracts to design custom seating for B-52 and E-4B aircrew, and a commercial aviation proof of concept. Kalogon is a fast-paced company that leverages lean startup methodology to rapidly improve our technology in close partnership with our customers and partners. At the core of our approach is empathy-driven design, ensuring that we deeply understand the challenges our users face and create solutions that directly address their needs, enhancing both comfort and quality of life.Learn more at /careers