Assay Development Research Scientist I

Fulgent Therapeutics LLC; El Monte (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

Fulgent Therapeutics LLC is seeking an Assay Development Research Scientist I to design and develop automated, high-throughput NGS-based genetic tests from concept through commercial launch. The role emphasizes collaboration, cross-functional projects, and integration of cutting-edge tech within the lab.

The candidate will contribute to test development, troubleshooting, and maintaining existing assays while ensuring compliance with CLIA/CAP and HIPAA standards in a dynamic biotech environment

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's Degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related field. >3 yrs for PhD; >5 yrs for MS preferred.
• Experience with DNA/RNA library prep, Target amplification, and NGS.
• Knowledge of human genetics, NGS, and genotyping.
• Prior CLIA/CAP lab and genetic company experience preferred.
• Basic bioinformatics understanding; HIPAA and SOP familiarity.

Responsibilities

• Develop scaled, high-sensitivity NGS tests from concept to launch.
• Design and optimize genetic assays and evaluate sequencing technologies.
• Troubleshoot Illumina sequencing platforms and automated lab workflows.
• Analyze data, communicate results clearly to cross-functional teams.
• Ensure quality control of algorithms and panel updates.

Skills

Genetics/molecular biology experience

Attention to detail

Independent and collaborative work

Regulatory awareness (HIPAA)

Communication of results

Education

PhD or MS in Molecular Biology/Genetics

Tools

Illumina sequencing instruments

Bioinformatics basics

Job description

Job Details

Level: Experienced

Job Location: FLGT 4399 BLDG 1 - El Monte, CA 91731

Position Type: Full Time

Education Level: Graduate Degree

Salary Range: $85,000.00 - $106,000.00 Salary/year

Job Category: Biotech

About Us

Founded in 2011, Fulgent has evolved into a premier, full-service genomic testing company built around a foundational technology platform.

Through our diverse testing menu, Fulgent is focused on transforming patient care in oncology, anatomic pathology, infectious and rare diseases, and reproductive health. We believe that by providing a wide range of effective, flexible testing options in conjunction with best-in-class service and support, we can redefine the way medicine is managed for patients and clinicians alike.

Since integrating with our therapeutic development business, Fulgent is also developing drug candidates for treating a broad range of cancers using a novel nanoencapsulation and targeted therapy platform. By merging our fields of expertise, we aim to become a fully integrated precision medicine company.

Summary of Position

The Assay Development Research Scientist I position is for candidates who have experience in developing scaled, high-sensitivity tests, and experience with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). The Assay Development – Research Scientist 1 will be responsible for designing and developing fully-automated, high-throughput next generation sequencing-based genetic tests from concept through commercial launch. The assay development team strives to create a highly collaborative environment, with an emphasis on cross-functional projects. Continually assess and integrate cutting-edge technology into our laboratory and development process, our Assay Development - Research Scientists will play a key role in developing new tests as well as troubleshooting and maintaining existing assays

Key Job Elements

• Develop scaled and high-sensitivity tests for Next Generation Sequencing.
• Develop, test, and evaluate Next Generation Sequencing technologies.
• Troubleshoot automated clinical laboratories’ preparation and Illumina sequencing instruments.
• Design/execute analyses independently with minimum scientific guidance.
• Design and optimize genetic assays.
• Communicate and present results in a clear and concise manner.
• Conduct quality control of algorithms for new and update panels.
• Demonstrate exquisite attention to detail and organization.
• Participate in the design and develop fully-automated, high-throughput next generation sequencing-based genetic tests from concept through commercial launch.
• Participate in a highly collaborative environment, with an emphasis on cross-functional projects and teams.
• Play a key role in developing new tests as well as troubleshooting and maintaining existing assays.

Qualifications Knowledge/Experience

• PhD or Master's Degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related biological sciences field of study. Substantial industry and academic experience (>5 years for a Master's Degree and >3 years for a Ph.D.) preferred.
• Experience with genetics or molecular biology techniques, including DNA and RNA library preparation, Target amplification, and NGS.
• Knowledge of human genetics, NGS, and genotyping experience required.
• Prior experience with a CLIA/CAP laboratory and a genetic company is highly preferred.
• Basic understanding of bioinformatics.
• Knowledge of HIPAA and laboratory SOPs, regulatory, and safety procedures.
• Ability to correlate next-generation sequencing data with changes in the laboratory procedure.
• Attention to detail and accuracy are crucial for a Research and Development scientist position.
• Ability to work independently and also in a collaborative environment.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize laboratory and data analysis tasks.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to successfully complete projects.
• Enjoy working with the research team and collaborating with the whole related team.

Supervisory Responsibilities

No

Reports To

Lab Manager/R&D Manager

Environment

Fulgent Therapeutics LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. The term “qualified individual with a disability” means an individual with a disability who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of the position.

For California residents, please see the link below to access our CCPA Privacy Notice.

CCPA Privacy Notice for California Residents https://tinyurl.com/FulgentCCPA

Please note that Fulgent (and its affiliated companies, including Inform Diagnostics and CSI Laboratories) does not accept unsolicited information and/or resumes from search firms or agencies for our job postings. Search firms or agencies without an applicable contract and/or express approval to recruit for the role in question — that choose to submit a resume or client information to our career page or to any employee of Fulgent — will not be eligible for payment of any fee(s), and any associated shared data will become the property of Fulgent.