Lead Scientist, NGS MRD Diagnostics

Veracyte; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Veracyte is seeking an experienced Senior Scientist to lead the development of next-generation MRD assays from concept to clinical lab implementation. The role demands expertise in NGS-based oncology diagnostics and a track record of delivering regulated clinical assays through cross-functional leadership.

You will drive assay design, automation, QC, and workflow optimization while collaborating with Bioinformatics, Operations, Quality, and Regulatory teams to ensure robust diagnostic products.

Qualifications

• PhD in molecular biology or related field with 6–7 years post-doc/industry NGS experience.
• Experience developing NGS-based clinical assays in regulated settings.
• Experience with automation and high-throughput workflows.
• Strong data analysis and visualization skills (R, Python, JMP).
• Background in cancer genomics, ctDNA, or MRD diagnostics is a plus.
• Experience with quality systems and regulatory requirements (CAP/CLIA).

Responsibilities

• Lead development, verification, and transfer of NGS-based MRD assays to clinical labs.
• Design automated workflows, QC, throughput, and LIMS integration.
• Develop innovative strategies to improve assay performance and scalability.
• Plan and execute feasibility, optimization, and verification studies with defined objectives.
• Prepare protocols, SOPs, reports, risk assessments, and design controls for regulatory compliance.
• Act as SME in NGS oncology genomics and ctDNA/MRD technologies; troubleshoot complex issues.
• Collaborate with Bioinformatics, Data Science, Operations, and Quality teams to implement robust diagnostics.
• Support tech transfer, implementation, and training for lab personnel.

Skills

NGS expertise

Laboratory automation

Biochemistry knowledge

Data analysis (JMP/R/Python)

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology/Genetics/Biochemistry

Tools

LIMS

NGS platforms

Job description

Veracyte is seeking an experienced Senior Scientist to lead the development of next-generation MRD assays from concept to clinical lab implementation. The role demands expertise in NGS-based oncology diagnostics and a track record of delivering regulated clinical assays through cross-functional leadership.

You will drive assay design, automation, QC, and workflow optimization while collaborating with Bioinformatics, Operations, Quality, and Regulatory teams to ensure robust diagnostic products.