Scientist II, Assay Development

San Diego Stealth Startup; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

San Diego Stealth Startup in San Diego, CA is seeking a Scientist II to support development of molecular methods for clinical NGS assays. This hands-on role executes experiments moving nucleic acid extraction and library preparation toward robust, automation-ready processes suitable for transfer to clinical lab operations.

You will work with senior scientists to run structured experiments, analyze data, optimize buffers and reaction conditions, and contribute to method performance while growing

Qualifications

• BS with 3+ years bench experience in molecular biology or MS with 2+ years in related field.
• Solid molecular biology and biochemistry fundamentals, with hands-on library preparation experience.
• Strong attention to detail and reproducible execution of bench work.

Responsibilities

• Execute bench experiments advancing library preparation methods toward production-ready performance.
• Prepare and test buffer formulations; contribute to method optimization via systematic data.
• Run structured experiments and analyze data to characterize method performance.
• Perform stability and robustness studies per established protocols and summarize results.
• Support transfer of bench methods, including protocol execution and method comparisons.
• Contribute to reagent QC through QC assays and documentation.
• Assist tech transfer and analytical validation with bench work and troubleshooting.

Skills

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Data analysis

Experimental design

Record keeping

Independence

Attention to detail

Education

BS in Molecular Biology or related (3+ years)

MS with 2+ years

PhD in relevant field

Tools

Library prep workflows

Liquid handling platforms

QC assays

Job description

Location: San Diego, CA

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary $110,000 - $120,000

Position Overview

We are seeking a Scientist II to support the development, optimization, and maturation of molecular methods for clinical next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays. This is a hands‑on, bench‑focused individual contributor role: executing the experiments that move nucleic acid extraction and library preparation methods from feasibility toward robust, automation‑ready processes suitable for transfer to clinical lab operations.

Working closely with senior scientists and process engineers, the Scientist II will run structured experiments, generate and analyze high‑quality data, and contribute to the optimization of buffer formulations, reaction conditions, and process parameters that drive method performance and stability. The role is well suited to a scientist with strong molecular biology fundamentals and solid bench execution who is ready to grow toward independent method development in a rigorous, quality‑oriented environment where methods are actively evolving.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute bench experiments that advance library preparation methods from feasibility toward production‑ready performance.
• Prepare and test buffer formulations and reaction conditions, and contribute to method optimization by generating and analyzing systematic, well‑controlled data.
• Execute systematic experiments, and perform data analysis to characterize method performance.
• Run stability and robustness studies per established protocols, and summarize results clearly.
• Support the transfer of bench methods including hands‑on protocol execution, method‑comparison runs, and troubleshooting.
• Contribute to reagent QC by executing QC assays.
• Support tech transfer and analytical validation activities through bench execution, troubleshooting, and documentation.
• Maintain rigorous, well‑organized experimental records (electronic lab notebook), generate clear data summaries and technical reports, and contribute to process and design documentation.
• Collaborate with assay development, process engineering, automation, quality, and clinical operations to advance methods from feasibility through production.

Qualifications

Required:

• BS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field with 3+ years of relevant laboratory experience; or MS with 2+ years; or a PhD in a relevant field.
• Solid molecular biology and biochemistry fundamentals, with hands‑on experience in library preparation and workflows.
• Demonstrated bench proficiency in core techniques, with accurate, reproducible execution and strong attention to detail.
• Working familiarity with structured experimental design and data analysis.
• Rigorous, well‑organized record‑keeping and the ability to generate clear technical data summaries.
• Ability to execute independently on assigned experiments and manage parallel bench work in a fast‑moving, early‑stage environment.

Preferred:

• Experience with low‑input or other challenging workflows.
• Hands‑on experience with liquid handling platforms.
• Exposure to a regulated or quality‑driven environment and familiarity with design controls.
• Programming or scripting experience (Python, R) for data analysis or experimental workflows.
• Familiarity with QC metrics and data interpretation.
• Comfort operating in a stealth‑stage, resource‑constrained environment where the development roadmap is actively evolving.

Why Join Us

• Influence the foundational technologies and strategies of a company poised to shape the future of clinical genomics and healthcare.
• Work in a dynamic, collaborative environment where innovation and scientific rigor are deeply valued.
• Join a seasoned and multidisciplinary team tackling high‑impact problems at the intersection of science and engineering.
• Competitive compensation and equity package, comprehensive benefits, and flexibility to support work‑life integration.