Molecular Assays Scientist - qPCR, ddPCR & NGS

BioSpace; New Jersey; On-site; USD 96,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401k retirement plan with companymatch

Paid time off and holidays

Eight weeks parental leave

Job summary

Legend Biotech is seeking a Scientist, Molecular Assays to join the Bioanalytical Sciences team in Somerset, NJ. The role targets development, execution, and optimization of molecular assays for clinical, translational, and preclinical programs, focusing on qPCR, ddPCR, and NGS, including single-cell sequencing workflows.

The successful candidate will have hands-on molecular biology experience, strong laboratory execution, and attention to detail, with a pathway toward contributing to innovative

Qualifications

• Hands-on molecular biology techniques including nucleic acid extraction, qPCR, RT-qPCR, and/or ddPCR.
• Experience with NGS workflows and library preparation; single-cell sequencing is a plus.
• Experience in cell and gene therapy, immunology, oncology, or regulated lab environments is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology experiments supporting clinical, translational, and preclinical research programs.
• Execute qPCR and ddPCR assays for gene expression analysis, biomarker quantification, transgene detection, vector copy number determination, and biodistribution studies.
• Support development, optimization, qualification, transfer, and troubleshooting of molecular assays.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, quantification, and quality assessment from blood, tissue, cell culture, and other biological samples.
• Prepare samples and perform library preparation for next-generation sequencing (NGS) applications, including single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‑seq).
• Operate and maintain molecular biology instrumentation, including qPCR, ddPCR, and NGS-related platforms.
• Analyze experimental data, ensure data quality, maintain accurate laboratory documentation, and assist in the preparation of protocols, SOPs, technical reports, and assay-related documents.
• Process, track, and manage biological samples using LIMS and ELN systems while ensuring sample integrity and traceability.
• Support laboratory operations, including inventory management, sample shipments, equipment maintenance, and laboratory organization.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory workflows, assay performance, and operational efficiency.

Skills

qPCR

ddPCR

NGS

Single-cell sequencing

Nucleic acid extraction

Education

M.S. in Life Sciences / Molecular Biology / Biochemistry

Ph.D. in related field

Tools

qPCR instruments

NGS platforms

Job description

Legend Biotech is seeking a Scientist, Molecular Assays to join the Bioanalytical Sciences team in Somerset, NJ. The role targets development, execution, and optimization of molecular assays for clinical, translational, and preclinical programs, focusing on qPCR, ddPCR, and NGS, including single-cell sequencing workflows.

The successful candidate will have hands-on molecular biology experience, strong laboratory execution, and attention to detail, with a pathway toward contributing to innovative