Scientist/Sr. Scientist - NGS

BostonGene; Waltham (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

BostonGene is seeking a Bench Scientist for their R&D next-generation sequencing team in Waltham, MA. This role involves significant laboratory work, including assay development, technical transfer, and NGS protocols. Candidates should have a Ph.D. with relevant experience or a M.S. or B.S. with substantial hands-on experience. Strong skills in nucleic acid extraction and NGS library preparation are essential. The position offers an innovative environment focused on improving cancer patient care through advanced technology.

Qualifications

• 0-3 years of relevant experience for candidates with a Ph.D.
• 3-6 years of experience for candidates with an M.S.
• 6-10 years of hands-on experience for candidates with a B.S.

Responsibilities

• Perform assay and product development experiments of NGS workflows.
• Troubleshoot and support the technical transfer of workflows.
• Maintain detailed records in LIMS and ELN.

Skills

Nucleic acid extraction

NGS library preparation

Problem-solving skills

Organizational skills

Education

Ph.D. in life sciences or related discipline

M.S. with 3–6 years of experience

B.S. with 6–10 years of hands-on experience

Job description

BostonGene is redefining cancer patient care and drug development through the integration of omnimodal data and artificial intelligence. Built and validated through an extensive real-world clinical testing network, BostonGene’s Foundation Model of cancer and the immune system integrates genomic, transcriptomic, and immune data with clinical outcomes to generate biologically grounded, actionable insights. These insights enable biopharma partners to design and de-risk trials, identify novel targets, and optimize therapeutic response prediction across all stages of development while simultaneously improving patient care through clinically integrated innovation.

Position Overview

BostonGene is seeking a bench Scientist to join our R&D next-generation sequencing (NGS) team in our laboratory located in Waltham, MA. This candidate will support assay development and technical transfer in collaboration with immunology, production, and bioinformatics teams. The candidate will be expected to support NGS protocols, such as RNA and DNA isolation from tissue, cell-free DNA isolation from plasma, library preparation, QC, and other lab processes. The role will primarily require laboratory bench work (70-80%) in a BSL-2 laboratory.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform assay and product development experiments of NGS workflows, including WGS, WES, and liquid biopsy assays for internal and external collaborators
• Troubleshoot and support the technical transfer of workflows to the production lab.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records in LIMS, ELN, and in compliance with laboratory protocols and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in the development of laboratory SOPs and batch records.
• Execute and assist with validation studies, bridging studies, and technical reports.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies and trends in NGS to support innovation in assay development.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in life sciences or related discipline with 0–3 years of relevant experience
• M.S. with 3–6 years of experience
• B.S. with 6–10 years of hands‑on experience

(The job title will be commensurate with experience.)

• Strong experience in nucleic acid extraction (DNA/RNA) from FFPE, blood, or other clinical samples.
• Proficiency in NGS library prep (short-read and/or long-read), including WGS and WES.
• Excellent problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage sample tracking, documentation, and inventory.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Experience working with liquid biopsy samples (cfDNA/ctDNA, cfRNA, or exosomes).
• Familiarity with NGS QC metrics and analysis tools.
• Understanding of assay validation in regulated environments (GCLP, ISO).
• Demonstrated experience in SOP development and process documentation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross‑functional teams.
• Proven ability to work in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment with shifting priorities.
• Self‑motivated and accountable, with a collaborative mindset.

Additional Information

• Ability to stand for prolonged periods and perform repetitive tasks inherent to laboratory work.