Scientist I

Illumina; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 58,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Illumina is seeking a Scientist I in the United States for enzyme production process development in the Advanced Science group. The role entails protein purification, functional assays, buffer formulation, and meticulous documentation to drive design decisions.

Collaboration across teams is essential in a fast-paced environment. The position supports a base salary range of $58,300–$87,500 with additional bonus/ equity opportunities and a broad benefits package.

Qualifications

• BS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Chemistry or related field, or an Associate’s degree with 1-2 years of laboratory experience
• Familiarity with analyzing proteins and nucleic acids using techniques such as SDS-PAGE, agarose gel electrophoresis, UV/Vis spectroscopy, or fluorescence-based assays
• Ability to calculate molarities and make biological buffers
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Good organizational, time-management, and analytical abilities
• Comfort with ambiguity and a fast-paced, collaborative work environment

Responsibilities

• Purify proteins using column chromatography and filtration techniques
• Perform functional and physical assays to assess protein purity and stability
• Generate buffer systems to support specific design requirements
• Formulate protein solutions to match predefined enzyme product conditions
• Generate, track, and maintain development enzyme and buffer inventories
• Thoroughly and accurately document experiments as they are performed
• Write summaries and contribute to reports
• Help troubleshoot unexpected or challenging results within a team
• Optimize and stress test process designs to ensure robust performance
• Analyze, summarize, and present results to teams to drive design decisions and improvements

Skills

Protein analysis

Buffer preparation

Communication skills

Office software

Time management

Analytical ability

Ambiguity tolerance

Education

BS in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology/Genetics/Microbiology/Chemistry or related field

Associate’s degree with 1-2 years lab experience

Tools

SDS-PAGE

Agarose gel electrophoresis

UV/Vis spectroscopy

Fluorescence-based assays

Microsoft Office

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 the worldwide leader in DNA sequencing and genomic technologies. Our innovative tools for DNA, RNA, and protein analysis are enabling rapid advances in disease research, drug development, and the development of molecular tests in the clinic.

As part of the Enzyme Process Development Group in Advanced Science, you will work in a dynamic, team-oriented environment and contribute to development of enzyme production processes.

Position Responsibilities

• Purify proteins using column chromatography and filtration techniques
• Perform functional and physical assays to assess protein purity and stability
• Generate buffer systems to support specific design requirements
• Formulate protein solutions to match predefined enzyme product conditions
• Generate, track, and maintain development enzyme and buffer inventories
• Thoroughly and accurately document experiments as they are performed
• Write summaries and contribute to reports
• Help troubleshoot unexpected or challenging results within a team
• Optimize and stress test process designs to ensure robust performance
• Analyze, summarize, and present results to teams to drive design decisions and improvements

Position Requirements

• BS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Chemistry or related field, or an Associate’s degree with 1-2 years of laboratory experience
• Familiarity with analyzing proteins and nucleic acids using techniques such as SDS-PAGE, agarose gel electrophoresis, UV/Vis spectroscopy, or fluorescence-based assays
• Ability to calculate molarities and make biological buffers
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Good organizational, time-management, and analytical abilities
• Comfort with ambiguity and a fast-paced, collaborative work environment

This opportunity would suit a range of scientists looking for a chance to join an organization that is on the cutting edge of biological assays. The candidate can expect a highly innovative and modern environment with global collaboration and top‑of‑the‑line tools and laboratory equipment.

The estimated base salary range for the Scientist I role based in the United States of America is: $58,300 - $87,500. 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.

We offer a wide range of benefits as innovative as our work, including access to genomics sequencing, family planning, health/dental/vision, retirement benefits, and paid time off.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

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.

Illumina has been made aware of fraudulent schemes in which individuals falsely claim to represent Illumina, our Talent Acquisition team, or our Human Resources organization. Please note: All legitimate Illumina career opportunities are posted on the Illumina Careers website. Illumina will never ask candidates to pay fees, transfer money, purchase equipment, or provide banking information during the recruitment process. Illumina does not extend employment offers without a formal interview process. Official recruiting communications will come from authorized Illumina email addresses ([e-mail]). If you are unsure whether a communication is legitimate, please contact us at [e-mail] before sharing any personal information. Thank you for helping us protect the integrity of the hiring process and your experience.