Senior Scientist – Biophysics

Illumina; Alberta; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotechnology company in Alberta is seeking a candidate with a PhD in biophysics or a related field to innovate in DNA sequencing technologies. The role involves designing experiments, collaborating with teams, and interpreting complex data. Ideal candidates should possess exceptional communication skills and a strong can-do attitude while being able to work effectively in international teams. This position offers an opportunity to impact global health through genomic technology.

Benefits

Inclusive work environment

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• 0-5 years of hands-on experience with DNA-related biophysics experiments.
• Understanding of single molecule biophysics.
• Ability to work with data collection systems and troubleshoot experiments.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute single molecule experiments.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve problems.
• Write technical reports and prepare presentations.

Skills

Data interpretation skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Collaboration

Creativity

Education

PhD in biophysics, bioengineering, or biochemistry

Job description

Overview

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?

At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.

Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

Role and Qualifications

You are excited to develop novel approaches to sequencing DNA. As a creative, first-principles experimentalist comfortable working at the interface between biology and physics, this biophysics/biochemist candidate has experience working with DNA, and/or in the study of DNA-processing enzymes such as polymerases and helicases. Single-molecule and biophysics experience preferred. Experience scripting or programming to discern new insights from data is a plus, as is comfort with setting up, troubleshooting, and working with new instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• The successful candidate will design, execute and interpret single molecule experiments, utilizing an understanding of DNA, enzymes and biophysics.
• Effectively work within multidisciplinary and international teams and routinely interact with synthetic chemists, protein chemists, bioinformatics scientists, and engineers to solve problems and devise experimental plans.
• Innovate and devise creative solutions to difficult biophysics problems.
• Keep detailed lab notebooks, prepare reports, updates, and summaries for managers and team. Write technical reports and prepare presentations for cross functional and cross-site technical teams.

All listed tasks and responsibilities are deemed as essential functions to this position; however, business conditions may require reasonable accommodations for additional tasks and responsibilities.

Requirements

• PhD in biophysics, bioengineering, biochemistry, protein chemistry or related field.
• 0-5 years of post-PhD hands-on experience with DNA-related biophysics experiments, DNA processing enzymes, or method development for DNA sequencing. Understanding of single molecule biophysics; interdisciplinary experience combining biochemistry and biophysics to address biological problems.
• Familiarity and comfort working with data collection systems, interpreting data sets, and troubleshooting experiments.
• Exceptional data interpretation skills and ability to study data to propose next steps.
• Highly creative and inventive problem solver with a can-do attitude.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Highly collaborative team player.

All listed requirements are deemed as essential functions to this position; however, business conditions may require reasonable accommodations for additional tasks and responsibilities.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Ability to maintain custom equipment (training will be provided).
• Ability to write scripts to process proprietary data.
• Experience working with international cross site teams.

We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact **************@illumina.com. To learn more, visit: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf. The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

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