Expression of Interest - Senior Bioinformatics Scientist

Illumina; United States; Hybrid; USD 59,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Illumina seeks a Senior Bioinformatics Scientist to join the team driving the industry‑leading DRAGEN platform and its integration with Illumina Connected Analytics (ICA). You will develop next‑generation bioinformatics solutions turning complex genomic data into meaningful insights, tackling challenges in oncology, rare diseases, and population genomics.

You will design scalable algorithms, collaborate with cross‑functional teams, and contribute to widely adopted secondary analysis workflows

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Strong experience developing bioinformatics methods and algorithms for next‑generation sequencing data.
• Expertise in secondary analysis workflows including mapping, alignment, variant calling, and genomic interpretation.
• Proficiency in C/C++, or equivalent high‑performance programming languages.
• Experience working with large‑scale genomic datasets and production software environments.
• Knowledge of applications such as cancer genomics, rare disease analysis, population genetics, transcriptomics, or multi‑omics research.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement innovative computational and statistical methods for genomic data analysis.
• Build high‑performance production software that delivers speed, scalability, and accuracy.
• Analyze and interpret complex sequencing datasets to support product and workflow development.
• Partner with software, FPGA, quality, clinical genomics, and product teams to deliver integrated solutions.
• Advance the DRAGEN platform across germline, somatic, DNA, RNA, structural variant, CNV, and targeted sequencing applications.
• Engage with customers, researchers, and scientific collaborators to understand emerging needs.
• Present scientific findings and technical approaches to both specialist and non‑specialist audiences.
• Contribute to publications, presentations, technical documentation, and thought leadership initiatives.
• Evaluate and apply emerging technologies to continuously improve performance and customer outcomes.
• Champion collaboration, accountability, and innovation while helping teams succeed together.

Skills

C/C++

Genomics

Bioinformatics

Algorithms

Statistics

Education

Master’s or PhD in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, or related

Tools

DRAGEN

Illumina ICA

Job description

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.

Senior Bioinformatics Scientist

Location: Europe or South Africa Hybrid or Remote Working

Advert Closing Date: Thursday 15th October 2026

If you are an experienced bioinformatics professional driven by the power of genomics to transform healthcare, we welcome your expression of interest in future exciting Bioinformatic opportunities.

We will be looking for a Senior Bioinformatics Scientist to join the team behind the industry-leading DRAGEN™ platform and its integration with Illumina Connected Analytics (ICA), developing next-generation bioinformatics solutions that turn complex genomic data into meaningful biological insights.

This is an opportunity to tackle some of the most exciting and meaningful challenges in genomics, working at the intersection of science, software, and innovation. Your work will help drive breakthroughs in areas including rare disease, oncology, population genomics, and precision medicine.

Why this role?

At Illumina, innovation is driven by purpose. Every project, algorithm, and advancement contributes to a mission that matters: improving human health through genomics. You’ll work alongside world-class scientists, engineers, and cross-functional partners to develop technologies that have a real-world impact on patients and communities around the globe.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Design novel algorithms that advance genomic analysis at scale
• Contribute to one of the most widely adopted secondary analysis platforms in sequencing
• Collaborate with leading experts across software engineering, FPGA development, clinical genomics, quality, and customer-facing teams
• Solve complex scientific challenges while helping shape the future direction of genomic technologies
• Deliver solutions that support discoveries, diagnostics, and precision medicine applications worldwide

About You

You’re a curious and innovative scientist who thrives on solving complex biological and computational challenges.

You combine deep expertise in bioinformatics, genomics, statistics, and algorithm development with a passion for translating cutting‑edge research into production‑ready solutions. Whether working independently or collaborating across disciplines, you’re motivated by meaningful challenges and excited by the opportunity to create tools that make a tangible difference.

You will likely bring:

• A Master’s or PhD in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, or a related discipline
• Strong experience developing bioinformatics methods and algorithms for next‑generation sequencing data
• Expertise in secondary analysis workflows including mapping, alignment, variant calling, and genomic interpretation
• Proficiency in C/C++, or equivalent high‑performance programming languages
• Experience working with large‑scale genomic datasets and production software environments
• Knowledge of applications such as cancer genomics, rare disease analysis, population genetics, transcriptomics, or multi‑omics research

Most importantly, you’re excited by the opportunity to push boundaries, redefine what’s possible, and help deliver genomic insights that improve lives.

What You’ll Do

• Design, develop, and implement innovative computational and statistical methods for genomic data analysis
• Build high‑performance production software that delivers speed, scalability, and accuracy
• Analyze and interpret complex sequencing datasets to support product and workflow development
• Partner with software, FPGA, quality, clinical genomics, and product teams to deliver integrated solutions
• Advance the DRAGEN platform across germline, somatic, DNA, RNA, structural variant, CNV, and targeted sequencing applications
• Engage with customers, researchers, and scientific collaborators to understand emerging needs
• Present scientific findings and technical approaches to both specialist and non‑specialist audiences
• Contribute to publications, presentations, technical documentation, and thought leadership initiatives
• Evaluate and apply emerging technologies to continuously improve performance and customer outcomes
• Champion collaboration, accountability, and innovation while helping teams succeed together

Why Illumina?

At Illumina, you’ll join a community of talented people united by a shared purpose: advancing human health through genomics. You’ll be challenged to do your best work, supported by colleagues who are collaborative and driven, and empowered to make an impact that extends far beyond the workplace. Together, we’re enabling the breakthroughs that will define the future of healthcare.

Ready to help accelerate the next generation of genomic discovery? We’d love to hear from you.

The estimated base salary range for the Expression of Interest - Senior Bioinformatics Scientist role based in United Kingdom is GBP 44,000 - 66,000.The range reflects long‑term growth in the role; therefore, most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. This salary range applies to the primary posting location listed above. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range will be updated accordingly. Compensation ranges for other locations will differ to reflect local market competitiveness and will be shared with candidates if applicable during the recruitment process.Additionally, all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package.We offer a thoughtfully designed benefits package that supports your wellbeing, flexibility, and life beyond work—combining globally differentiated offerings with locally tailored programs. This includes support during important life moments, flexible time off, opportunities to give back, and a weeklong company‑wide summer shutdown. In the UK, we also offer flexible benefits, a company contribution of 10% into your pension, and private medical insurance, alongside additional benefits to support you and your family.

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.