The diagnostics sector is concerned with the development and production of assays for the detection of specific markers of interest in the human health, veterinary and industrial fields. Some of the more commonly found markers are glucose, cells, enzymes, proteins, viruses, bacteria and specific chemicals. On the research and development side, the main function in the development of novel assays, based on immunological, antibody or enzyme-linked mechanisms. These novel assays are then scaled into large-scale manufacturing processes.

In Ireland, a number of companies have both research and manufacturing facilities located here, allowing for a broad range of opportunities in the sector. Some graduate opportunities exist, generally for biochemists and immunologists on the production side. For research positions, a PhD in the relevant assay technique - immunoassay etc. will generally be required.