Scientist II, Assay Development

Location: San Diego, CA

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary $110,000 - $120,000

Position Overview

We are seeking a Scientist II to support the development, optimization, and maturation of molecular methods for clinical next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays. This is a hands-on, bench-focused individual contributor role: executing the experiments that move nucleic acid extraction and library preparation methods from feasibility toward robust, automation-ready processes suitable for transfer to clinical lab operations.

Working closely with senior scientists and process engineers, the Scientist II will run structured experiments, generate and analyze high-quality data, and contribute to the optimization of buffer formulations, reaction conditions, and process parameters that drive method performance and stability. The role is well suited to a scientist with strong molecular biology fundamentals and solid bench execution who is ready to grow toward independent method development in a rigorous, quality-oriented environment where methods are actively evolving.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute bench experiments that advance library preparation methods from feasibility toward production-ready performance.
• Prepare and test buffer formulations and reaction conditions, and contribute to method optimization by generating and analyzing systematic, well-controlled data.
• Execute systematic experiments, and perform data analysis to characterize method performance.
• Run stability and robustness studies per established protocols, and summarize results clearly.
• Support the transfer of bench methods including hands-on protocol execution, method-comparison runs, and troubleshooting.
• Contribute to reagent QC by executing QC assays.
• Support tech transfer and analytical validation activities through bench execution, troubleshooting, and documentation.
• Maintain rigorous, well-organized experimental records (electronic lab notebook), generate clear data summaries and technical reports, and contribute to process and design documentation.
• Collaborate with assay development, process engineering, automation, quality, and clinical operations to advance methods from feasibility through production.

Qualifications

Required:

• BS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field with 3+ years of relevant laboratory experience; or MS with 2+ years; or a PhD in a relevant field.
• Solid molecular biology and biochemistry fundamentals, with hands-on experience in library preparation and workflows.
• Demonstrated bench proficiency in core techniques, with accurate, reproducible execution and strong attention to detail.
• Working familiarity with structured experimental design and data analysis.
• Rigorous, well-organized record-keeping and the ability to generate clear technical data summaries.
• Ability to execute independently on assigned experiments and manage parallel bench work in a fast-moving, early-stage environment.

Preferred:

• Experience with low-input or other challenging workflows.
• Hands-on experience with liquid handling platforms.
• Exposure to a regulated or quality-driven environment and familiarity with design controls.
• Programming or scripting experience (Python, R) for data analysis or experimental workflows.
• Familiarity with QC metrics and data interpretation.
• Comfort operating in a stealth-stage, resource-constrained environment where the development roadmap is actively evolving.

Why Join Us

• Influence the foundational technologies and strategies of a company poised to shape the future of clinical genomics and healthcare.
• Work in a dynamic, collaborative environment where innovation and scientific rigor are deeply valued.
• Join a seasoned and multidisciplinary team tackling high-impact problems at the intersection of science and engineering.
• Competitive compensation and equity package, comprehensive benefits, and flexibility to support work-life integration.