NGS Scientist I

Tempus AI; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Tempus AI is seeking a Scientist to develop, optimize, and validate molecular assays for deployment in a high-throughput clinical laboratory in Chicago. You will perform hands-on assay development for advanced molecular workflows and drive validation studies while collaborating with cross‑functional teams.

You will design experiments, interpret results, and support automation initiatives to improve laboratory workflows.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years, or Master’s with 2+ years in molecular biology or assay development.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and experimental design skills.
• Ability to interpret results via literature and SME input to refine design.
• Highly organized, detail oriented, and quality focused.
• Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new processes and workflows.
• Excellent collaboration and cross-team leadership; strong communication.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on assay development for molecular and NGS workflows in a regulated clinical lab.
• Design, execute and analyze R&D experiments with scientific rigor.
• Plan qualification and validation studies for reagents, instruments, methods.
• Interpret data, troubleshoot issues, and drive process improvements.
• Support automation initiatives to improve workflows in the lab.
• Maintain thorough documentation of methods, materials and results.
• Train and mentor junior staff and support new workflows.
• Collaborate across cross-functional teams and communicate with stakeholders.
• Manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Travel up to 10% as needed.

Skills

Molecular biology

Assay development

Experimental design

Complex data interpretation

Cross-functional collaboration

Documentation & SOPs

Education

Bachelor’s degree + 5+ years OR Master’s +2+ years

Tools

LIMS

Liquid handling robotics

Automation workflows

Job description

Passionate about precision medicine and advancing the healthcare industry?

Recent advancements in underlying technology have finally made it possible for AI to impact clinical care in a meaningful way. Tempus’ proprietary platform connects an entire ecosystem of real-world evidence to deliver real-time, actionable insights to physicians, providing critical information about the right treatments for the right patients, at the right time.

At Tempus, we are leveraging the power of AI to transform clinical care. Our proprietary platform connects a vast ecosystem of real-world data to deliver intelligent, actionable insights that help physicians make more informed decisions and enable personalized treatment for patients.

We are seeking a Scientist to support the development, optimization and validation of molecular assays and laboratory processes for deployment in our high-throughput clinical laboratory.

What You’ll Do

• Perform hands‑on assay development for advanced molecular and NGS-based workflows in a CAP/CLIA/NYSDOH regulated clinical laboratory
• Design, execute, and analyze R&D experiments with strong attention to detail and scientific rigor
• Design and execute qualification and validation studies for reagents, instruments, equipment, and methods to support clinical deployment.
• Interpret data, troubleshoot issues, and drive process improvements.
• Support automation and technology initiatives to improve laboratory workflows.
• Maintain clear and comprehensive documentation of methods, materials, and results
• Train and mentor junior scientific staff and support implementation of new laboratory workflows as needed
• Collaborate across cross‑functional teams and provide scientific support in a matrixed environment.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Manage multiple priorities and adapt quickly in a fast‑paced environment.
• Travel up to 10% as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years, or Master’s degree with 2+ years of relevant experience in molecular biology, assay development, or a related field.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and experimental design skills.
• Ability to interpret results using scientific literature and SME input to refine experimental design
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and committed to quality and accuracy.
• Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new processes, technologies, and workflows.
• Strong collaboration skills with the ability to lead across teams.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience working in dynamic environments with competing priorities and deadlines
• Ability to interpret results using scientific literature and SME input to refine experimental design

Preferred Technical Experience

• Hands‑on experience with one or more of the following:
• DNA/RNA extraction and purification methods.
• PCR‑based techniques, including PCR, qPCR, RT‑PCR, and ddPCR.
• Nucleic acid manipulation, quantitation, and analysis.
• Assay troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and workflow optimization.

Highly Desirable

• NGS library preparation, hybrid capture, and sequencing workflows.
• Experience with laboratory automation and liquid handling robotics
• Prior experience in a clinical laboratory environment
• Familiarity with LIMS and laboratory data systems

CHI: $75,000-$95,000

The expected salary range may vary for other locations. Actual salary may vary based on qualifications and experience. Tempus offers a full range of benefits, which may include incentive compensation, restricted stock units, medical and other benefits depending on the position.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.