Scientist (NGS library preparation)

Aequor; Pleasanton (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Aequor in Pleasanton, CA seeks a Research Scientist I/II to advance molecular diagnostics through NGS and methylation sequencing. You will work on cell-free nucleic acids from clinical samples, collaborating with biology and bioinformatics teams to optimize sequencing performance.

The role offers hands-on lab work, data analysis, and opportunities to contribute to translational projects in oncology, genetics, and related fields. 12-month contract, W2 terms, on-site in Pleasanton.

Qualifications

• Molecular biology background in human disease research.
• Experience with NGS library preparation, targeted enrichment, and sequencing.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work well in cross-disciplinary teams and be self-motivated.

Responsibilities

• Perform cell-free nucleic acids extraction from plasma, whole blood, and FFPE tissue.
• Plan and conduct hands-on laboratory experiments under supervision.
• Design, execute and analyze methylation sequencing workflows.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and plan future experiments.
• Collaborate with molecular biology and bioinformatics groups to optimize sequencing performance.
• Execute high-throughput sequencing on AXELIOS 1 within a core lab.
• Maintain detailed records of all experiments and related data.

Skills

Molecular biology

NGS

Genomics

Bioinformatics

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Tools

AXELIOS 1 sequencer

Job description

Duration

12 months contract (with possible extension)

Terms

Contract W2

Description

• Our long-term goal is to revolutionize clinical diagnostics through innovation of advanced molecular diagnostic methods facilitating personalized, proactive treatments that lead to improved patient outcomes.
• This is accomplished first by identifying specific clinical/scientific needs followed by the application of Client molecular technologies to address them.
• We tackle critical problems standing in the way of the routine clinical use of next generation sequencing (NGS) diagnostics in oncology, genetics, women’s health, immunology, and infectious diseases worldwide.
• We work at the forefront of Research and Early Development to incorporate the latest technology advancements into new sequencing assays and applications.
• Our high-performance team is looking for new group members who share our drive and have advanced skill sets relevant to NGS, genomics, and bioinformatics.
• If you would like to work on challenging problems in NGS with the opportunity to invent new diagnostic methods, then this is the place for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform cell-free nucleic acids extraction from clinical plasma specimens, whole blood, and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue
• Work under manager supervision to plan and conduct hands‑on laboratory experiments independently
• Design, execute and analyze methods optimizing methylation sequencing workflows
• Analyze data, evaluate results, form conclusions, and determine future experiments
• Collaborate closely with molecular biology and bioinformatics groups to evaluate and identify potential parameters that may impact sequencing performance
• Execute high-throughput sequencing operations on the AXELIOS 1 sequencer within a core laboratory environment
• Keep detailed records of all experiments and project-related information
• The successful candidate should have:
• A background in molecular biology and human disease related fields
• Good understanding of NGS library preparation, targeted enrichment, and sequencing
• Ability to work well in teams and across disciplines
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• The candidate should be passionate and self-motivated with a strong desire to acquire on-the-job training
• Job level (Scientist I/Scientist II) will be determined based on relevant industry experience