NGS Lead

MS Clinical Research; Karnataka; On-site; INR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Job summary

MS Clinical Research in Karnataka seeks a seasoned Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Lead to manage the NGS operations, mentor a skilled lab team, and deliver high-quality sequencing solutions on Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms.

The role requires 10+ years in genomics, hands-on expertise in library prep, sequencing, troubleshooting, and ISO-compliant documentation; leadership, workflow optimization, and training to customers and internal staff.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience with NGS platforms (Illumina MiSeq/NextSeq/NovaSeq, Oxford Nanopore).
• Proficiency in library prep techniques (Nextera, TruSeq, NEB).
• Strong molecular biology skills (PCR/qPCR, DNA/RNA quantification).
• Familiarity with microarray techniques (gene expression, array CGH).
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and optimize complex lab workflows.
• Experience in team management and leadership roles.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the NGS laboratory team, ensuring timely and accurate project delivery.
• Plan and execute library preparation and sequencing workflows for Illumina platforms.
• Optimize protocols for metagenomic, WGS, RNA-seq, exome-seq, and small RNA-seq.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues during library preparation, sequencing, and data analysis.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction and quantification from diverse samples.
• Ensure QC with Qubit, TapeStation, and other methods.
• Develop workflows and SOPs for ISO compliance and audits.
• Provide technical guidance on NGS experimental design and data interpretation.
• Deliver training, webinars, and presentations to customers and team members.
• Collaborate with product support teams on reagents and sequencing systems issues.

Skills

NGS platforms

Library preparation

Molecular biology

PCR/qPCR

Microarray techniques

Team leadership

Troubleshooting

Data interpretation

Education

MTech/Ph.D in Genetics, Biotech, Molecular Biology

Tools

Nextera workflows

TruSeq workflows

NEB workflows

Job description

Job Title: Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Lead

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional to lead our Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) operations. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in life sciences and genomics, with extensive hands‑on expertise in NGS library preparation, sequencing, and troubleshooting. This role involves managing a team, optimizing workflows, and delivering high-quality sequencing solutions using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the NGS laboratory team, ensuring timely and accurate project delivery.
• Plan and execute library preparation and sequencing workflows for Illumina Sequencers.
• Optimize protocols for various sequencing applications, including metagenomic sequencing, whole-genome sequencing, RNA‑seq, exome‑seq, and small RNA‑seq.
• Perform troubleshooting and resolve issues during library preparation, sequencing, and data analysis.
• Conduct nucleic acid extraction and quantification from diverse sample types using advanced techniques.
• Ensure quality control through Qubit, Agilent TapeStation, and other analytical methods.
• Develop and standardize workflows and maintain detailed documentation, including SOPs and experimental plans, for ISO compliance and audits.
• Provide technical guidance to internal and external stakeholders on NGS experimental design and data interpretation.
• Deliver technical training, webinars, and presentations to customers and team members.
• Collaborate with product support teams to address reagent and sequencing system issues.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Extensive experience with NGS platforms and techniques, including Illumina (MiSeq, NextSeq, NovaSeq etc)
• Proficiency in library preparation techniques such as Nextera, TruSeq, and NEB workflows.
• Strong molecular biology skills, including PCR, qPCR, and DNA/RNA quantification.
• Familiarity with microarray techniques, including gene expression and array CGH assays.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and optimize complex laboratory workflows.
• Experience in team management and leadership roles.

Preferred Qualifications

• MTech/Ph.D in Genetics, Biotech, Molecular Biology or related fields
• Publications in peer-reviewed journals highlighting expertise in genomics or molecular biology.
• Experience in customer-facing roles or technical support in the genomics field.
• Experience in Bioinformatics for data QC, data analysis specifically for metagenomics.

Why Join Us?

• Work in a cutting-edge genomics environment with advanced technologies.
• Collaborate with a dynamic team of scientists and technical experts.
• Contribute to impactful projects in genomics and life sciences.