Senior Scientist

HireTalent; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 117,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

HireTalent seeks a Sr. Scientist to lead verification and validation studies for NGS-based multi-cancer early detection programs. You will design experiments, analyze data, document results, and provide scientific guidance to cross-functional project teams.

Responsibilities include mentoring junior scientists, preparing technical reports, and ensuring GMP/ISO quality system alignment across initiatives.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent with relevant life sciences background.
• Experience in medical device/IVD, biotech, or pharma industries.
• Strong hands-on molecular biology/biochemical techniques.
• Experience with NGS, genomics, and molecular diagnostics.
• Knowledge of GMP/ISO quality systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead verification and validation studies for diagnostic product development.
• Design and execute bench-level experiments in molecular biology, biochemistry, NGS, and genomics.
• Analyze data and guide project direction with leadership.
• Collaborate with bioinformatics, biostatistics, regulatory, and clinical teams.
• Prepare study plans, protocols, and technical reports.
• Present findings to teams and leadership.
• Mentor junior scientists and support quality/compliance.
• Ensure regulatory and quality system alignment.
• Serve as technical leader on complex projects.

Skills

Molecular biology

Biochemical techniques

NGS

Genomics

Statistics (JMP)

MS Office (Excel/Word/PowerPoint)

US work authorization

Education

PhD in Life Sciences/related field

Master's + 4 years experience

Bachelor's + 6 years experience

Tools

JMP

Job description

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Pay Rate: $85/hr to $96/hr on W2

Contract: 3+ Months with Possibility of extension

Job Overview

We are seeking a Sr. Scientist to lead verification and validation studies supporting innovative NGS-based multi-cancer early detection solutions. This role will involve experimental design, data analysis, technical documentation, cross-functional collaboration, and providing scientific guidance to project teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead verification and validation studies supporting molecular diagnostic product development and regulatory submissions.
• Design and execute bench-level experiments involving molecular biology, biochemistry, NGS, and genomics.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and provide recommendations for project direction.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including bioinformatics, biostatistics, regulatory, quality, clinical laboratory, and medical teams.
• Develop study plans, protocols, procedures, technical reports, and documentation.
• Present and communicate scientific findings to project teams and leadership.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior scientists.
• Support process improvements, regulatory compliance, and quality system requirements.
• Serve as a technical leader/subject matter expert on complex projects.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in Life Sciences, Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field; or Master's + 4 years of related experience; or Bachelor's + 6 years of related experience.
• 5+ years of industry or academic experience in biology and/or chemistry.
• 3+ years of experience in medical device/IVD, biotech, life sciences, or pharmaceutical industries.
• Strong hands-on experience with molecular biology and/or biochemical techniques.
• Experience with NGS, genomics, and molecular diagnostics.
• Understanding of GMP, ISO, and Quality Systems.
• Experience with statistical analysis/software such as JMP.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• 8+ years of Life Sciences, Chemistry, or related research experience.
• 6+ years in medical device/IVD, biotech, life sciences, or pharmaceutical industries.
• Experience in GMP and/or ISO environments.
• Experience with genomic databases and computational tools.
• Molecular diagnostics or clinical laboratory experience.
• Extensive hands-on experience developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting NGS workflows for DNA/RNA clinical samples.
• Experience analyzing NGS data and developing genomic/epigenomic biomarkers related to cancer.
• Experience with analytical validation and product development in an LDT or FDA-regulated environment.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Comfortable working with computers/tablets and performing fine finger manipulation as required.
• Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.