NGS Senior Scientist 1

Tempus AI; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Tempus AI is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead the development and validation of molecular assays for deployment in our clinical laboratory. The role emphasizes end‑to‑end assay development, validation, and cross‑functional collaboration in a fast‑paced environment.

The candidate will design and execute R&D studies, manage multiple priorities, and mentor junior scientists while contributing to automation and workflow improvements. Salary ranges reflect market conditions in the United States.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in molecular biology or equivalent with demonstrated assay development expertise.
• Clinical laboratory experience with CAP/CLIA preferred; strong data interpretation skills.
• Experience designing and executing validation studies for reagents, instruments, and methods.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of molecular assays and NGS workflows for high‑throughput clinical laboratories.
• Design, execute, and analyze R&D studies with scientific rigor and attention to detail.
• Lead assay validation and clinical implementation from study design through launch, including SOP creation and documentation.
• 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.
• Collaborate across cross‑functional teams and provide scientific leadership in a matrixed environment.
• Communicate clearly with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Train and mentor junior scientific staff and support implementation of new laboratory workflows.
• Support automation and technology initiatives to improve laboratory workflows.
• Travel up to 10% as needed.

Skills

Molecular biology

Assay development

Clinical lab experience

Analytical thinking

Documentation culture

Team leadership

Project management

Effective communication

Education

Ph.D. in molecular biology

Master’s degree + 5+ years relevant experience

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.

We are seeking a Senior Scientist to lead the development and validation of new molecular assays and laboratory processes for deployment in our clinical laboratory.

What You’ll Do

• Lead development of molecular assays and NGS workflows for high-throughput clinical laboratories.
• Design, execute, and analyze R&D studies with scientific rigor and attention to detail.
• Lead assay validation and clinical implementation from study design through launch, including workflow development, SOP creation, and documentation.
• 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.
• Collaborate across cross-functional teams and provide scientific leadership in a matrixed environment.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Train and mentor junior scientific staff and support implementation of new laboratory workflows.
• Support automation and technology initiatives to improve laboratory workflows.
• Manage multiple priorities and adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Travel up to 10% as needed.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. with 0 or more years of experience, or Master’s degree with 5+ years of relevant experience in molecular biology, assay development, or a related field.
• Experience in assay development and/or validation required.
• Experience in a clinical laboratory environment required; CAP/CLIA/NYSDOH experience preferred.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and experimental design skills.
• 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.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Technical Experience

• DNA/RNA extraction and purification methods.
• NGS library preparation, hybrid capture, and sequencing workflows.
• 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

• Experience with FFPE tissue workflows.
• Experience with laboratory automation and liquid handling robotics.
• Experience developing and implementing protocols for CLIA-regulated laboratories.
• Familiarity with LIMS and laboratory data systems.

Pay Range: $95,000 - $120,000 USD

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.