Scientist 1 - Assay R&D

Illumina; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 94,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Genomics access

Family planning

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Paid time off

Job summary

Illumina seeks a Scientist 1 for NGS assay R&D in spatial transcriptomics. You will design and execute experiments, optimize workflows, and contribute to novel methods in a collaborative team.

A Bachelor’s in Biochemistry or Molecular Biology is required, with strong communication and analytical skills for a fast-paced environment. Role emphasizes independent work, detailed record-keeping, and timely delivery of project milestones within a leading genomics company.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or similar field.
• Experience with tissue culture and nucleic acid manipulation.
• Strong analytical and experimental design skills.
• Excellent communication and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with spatial assays preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute lab-based experiments using biochemistry and molecular biology skills.
• Troubleshoot and optimize workflows and assays to improve performance.
• Innovate new spatial transcriptomics methods and devise solutions to technical issues.
• Work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Effectively communicate experimental results and next steps to team members at regular meetings.
• Maintain detailed records of experimental work and analysis.
• Complete goals within defined timelines.

Skills

Molecular biology

Nucleic acids analysis

Spatial transcriptomics

Experimental design

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry or Molecular Biology

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. Illumina is seeking a talented individual to fulfill a Scientist 1 role in next-generation sequencing (NGS) assay research and development. This is a unique opportunity to join a talented team of scientists at the frontier of innovation in spatial transcriptomics. At Illumina you will work in a dynamic, team-oriented environment and help create novel molecular biology assays that support expansion of Illumina’s spatial transcriptomics portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute lab-based experiments using biochemistry and molecular biology skills
• Troubleshoot and optimize workflows and assays to improve performance
• Innovate new spatial transcriptomics methods and devise solutions to technical issues
• Work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Effectively communicate experimental results and next steps to team members at regular meetings
• Maintain detailed records of experimental work and analysis
• Complete goals within defined timelines

Required Skills & Experience

• Laboratory experience with cell and molecular biology techniques, including tissue culture and methods for manipulating and analyzing nucleic acids
• Strong analysis and experimental design skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
• Experience with spatial assays preferred

Educational Background

Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or similar field.

Salary and Compensation

The estimated base salary range for the Scientist 1 - Assay R&D role based in the United States of America is: $62,900 - $94,300. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range may be updated accordingly. 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. 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.

Benefits

• access to genomics sequencing
• family planning
• health/dental/vision
• retirement benefits
• paid time off

Company Culture and Values

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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.

Background Checks

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.

Artificial Intelligence Policy

Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process.

Accommodation

If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact [e-mail].

EEO Poster

To learn more, visit: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf.

Hiring Process

The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants.

Visa Sponsorship

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

About Our Mission

The potential of genomics to change the world is unparalleled. At Illumina, we are leading the way. Our technology empowers researchers and clinicians globally to improve cancer treatments, change the course of diseases, protect the environment, and fight food insecurity. We are made up of dedicated professionals, all-in on creating a better world – and we need every skill set on our path to making genomics useful for all. Learn more about life at Illumina.