Senior Scientist, NGS & Molecular Assay Development — Clinical Lab

Tempus AI; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Tempus AI is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead the development and validation of molecular assays for deployment in our clinical laboratory. The role emphasizes end‑to‑end assay development, validation, and cross‑functional collaboration in a fast‑paced environment.

The candidate will design and execute R&D studies, manage multiple priorities, and mentor junior scientists while contributing to automation and workflow improvements. Salary ranges reflect market conditions in the United States.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in molecular biology or equivalent with demonstrated assay development expertise.
• Clinical laboratory experience with CAP/CLIA preferred; strong data interpretation skills.
• Experience designing and executing validation studies for reagents, instruments, and methods.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of molecular assays and NGS workflows for high‑throughput clinical laboratories.
• Design, execute, and analyze R&D studies with scientific rigor and attention to detail.
• Lead assay validation and clinical implementation from study design through launch, including SOP creation and documentation.
• Design and execute qualification and validation studies for reagents, instruments, equipment, and methods to support clinical deployment.
• Interpret data, troubleshoot issues, and drive process improvements.
• Collaborate across cross‑functional teams and provide scientific leadership in a matrixed environment.
• Communicate clearly with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Train and mentor junior scientific staff and support implementation of new laboratory workflows.
• Support automation and technology initiatives to improve laboratory workflows.
• Travel up to 10% as needed.

Skills

Molecular biology

Assay development

Clinical lab experience

Analytical thinking

Documentation culture

Team leadership

Project management

Effective communication

Education

Ph.D. in molecular biology

Master’s degree + 5+ years relevant experience

Job description

Tempus AI is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead the development and validation of molecular assays for deployment in our clinical laboratory. The role emphasizes end‑to‑end assay development, validation, and cross‑functional collaboration in a fast‑paced environment.

The candidate will design and execute R&D studies, manage multiple priorities, and mentor junior scientists while contributing to automation and workflow improvements. Salary ranges reflect market conditions in the United States.