Senior Scientist – Biophysics

Illumina; Coronado (CA); On-site; USD 98,000 - 148,000; Full time

Job summary

Illumina in the United States seeks a Senior Scientist in Biophysics to design and execute single-molecule experiments, combining biochemistry and physics to reveal mechanistic insights.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, develop novel assays, interpret complex data, and communicate findings to cross-site groups while advancing genomic technologies and innovation at Illumina.

Qualifications

• PhD in biophysics, bioengineering, biochemistry, protein chemistry or related field.
• 0-5 years of post-PhD hands-on experience with DNA-related biophysics experiments or DNA processing enzymes.
• Understanding of single-molecule biophysics and interdisciplinary biochemistry/biophysics work.
• Familiarity with data collection systems, interpreting datasets, and troubleshooting.
• Strong data interpretation and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and collaborative skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute and interpret single-molecule experiments with DNA, biochemistry and biophysics.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across chemistry, bioinformatics and engineering.
• Develop creative solutions to complex biophysics problems.
• Maintain detailed lab notebooks and prepare reports for managers.
• Write technical reports and present findings to cross-site teams.

Skills

DNA biophysics

Biochemistry

Biophysics

Data interpretation

Python scripting

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in biophysics or related field

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. You are excited to develop novel approaches to sequencing DNA.

As a creative, first-principles experimentalist comfortable working at the interface between biochemistry and physics, this biophysics/biochemist candidate has experience working with DNA, and/or in the study of DNA-processing enzymes such as polymerases and helicases. Single-molecule biophysics experience preferred. The ideal candidate has an in-depth understanding of biomolecular dynamics, mechanics, and interactions at the single-molecule level and demonstrated expertise in developing novel assays, troubleshooting complex systems, and interpreting single-molecule data to discern underlying mechanistic properties of a molecular system from first principles. Experience scripting or programming is a plus, as is comfort with setting up, troubleshooting, and working with new/custom instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• The successful candidate will design, execute and interpret single molecule experiments, utilizing an understanding of DNA, biochemistry and biophysics.
• Effectively work within multidisciplinary and international teams and routinely interact with synthetic chemists, protein chemists, bioinformatics scientists, and engineers to solve problems and devise experimental plans.
• Innovate and devise creative solutions to difficult biophysics problems.
• Keep detailed lab notebooks, prepare reports, updates, and summaries for managers and team.
• Write technical reports and prepare presentations for cross-functional and cross-site technical teams.

Requirements

• PhD in biophysics, bioengineering, biochemistry, protein chemistry or related field.
• 0-5 years of post-PhD hands‑on experience with DNA-related biophysics experiments, DNA processing enzymes, or method development for DNA sequencing.
• Understanding of single molecule biophysics; interdisciplinary experience combining biochemistry and biophysics to engineer biophysical systems and/or discern biophysical mechanisms.
• Familiarity and comfort working with data collection systems, interpreting data sets, and troubleshooting experiments.
• Exceptional data interpretation skills and ability to study data to propose next steps.
• Highly creative and inventive problem solver with a can‑do attitude.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Highly collaborative team player.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Ability to maintain custom equipment (training will be provided).
• Ability to write scripts to process proprietary data.
• Experience working with international cross site teams.

EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability

The estimated base salary range for the Senior Scientist – Biophysics role based in the United States of America is: $98,400 - $147,600. 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.