Scientist 1 - Reagent Sciences

Illumina; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading genomics company in Cambridge seeks a Scientist 1 for Reagent Sciences. The role involves developing and optimizing Next Generation Sequencing products and conducting laboratory experiments. Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry or related fields and possess excellent communication skills. Competitive salary and market-leading benefits offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Market leading benefits package

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 0-2 years of related experience.
• Motivated and positive individual interested in technology development.
• Understanding of molecular biology techniques.

Responsibilities

• Development and optimisation of Next Generation Sequencing products.
• Operation of equipment including plate readers and Illumina sequencers.
• Collaboration with teams to meet company goals.

Skills

Motivated

Excellent communication

Understanding of nucleic acid biochemistry

Excellent record-keeping

Proficiency in standard computer skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Tools

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Excel

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.

Scientist 1 - Reagent Sciences UK

Closing Date: 25th September 2025

Illumina is the worldwide leader in DNA sequencing and genomic technologies. Our innovative tools for DNA, RNA, and protein analysis are enabling rapid advances in disease research, drug development, and the development of molecular tests in the clinic.

Responsibilities

• Development and optimisation of Next Generation Sequencing products and methodologies
• Optimization and execution of lab-based biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology experimentation to characterize new and existing reagents or enzymes, and processes to achieve commercial levels of stability, robustness, and performance
• Operation of state-of-the-art equipment including plate readers, microscopes and Illumina sequencers
• Effective communication and presentation of results to local and global project teams
• Highly accurate recording and documentation of procedures and results
• Collection, organisation and analysis of large data sets and distilling into key conclusions in consultation with project leaders
• Working collaboratively with other teams and functions globally to meet company goals within a defined timeline and satisfy customer needs

Required Education, Experience & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 0-2 years of related experience; or an equivalent Masters degree; or equivalent work experience.
• Preferred degree in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Natural Sciences or a related field
• Motivated, enthusiastic, hard-working, positive individual who wants to be part of a fast-paced and dynamic technology development Team.
• Understanding of nucleic acid biochemistry and the application of molecular biology techniques
• Excellent communication, record keeping and presentation skills
• Good understanding of statistical significance, replicates, controls
• Proficiency in standard computer skills, PowerPoint and Excel or other statistical packages, knowledge of a programming language would be a plus

Preferred Skills

• An ability to troubleshoot molecular biology and biochemistry issues
• Laboratory experience qPCR methods and DNA characterization and quantification would be desirable.
• A working knowledge of, or background in, Next Generation Sequencing and library construction would be advantageous, but is not essential
• Interest in expanding skillset into biophysical characterization (for example super resolution microscopy, molecular interaction characterization etc.)

What can you expect

With Illumina you can expect a highly competitive salary accompanied by a market leading benefits package. You will be part of the global leader in the Sequencing industry where you will find robust growth opportunities and career development within Illumina.

Our team members are bright, energetic and dedicated - they are the driving force behind our innovation and impact. To attract the best and brightest, we offer a competitive employee benefits program. We view it as a smart investment in our people, one that recognizes the tremendous value they bring to our business every day. At Illumina, we push boundaries. We think beyond the conventional. We dream big. With the energy of so many bright and accomplished people, the opportunities are endless.

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 [e-mail]. 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.