The Genomics group in the Discovery Tech Futures, R&D, is seeking a highly motivated Genomics Staff Scientist with exceptional next generation sequencing (NGS) skills and demonstrated experience leading and developing scientific teams. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of the onsite NGS operations, including the design and execution of protocols, instrument operation, management and delivery of the data. In addition to technical leadership, this role carries direct people management responsibilities: the Staff Scientist will supervise, mentor, and support the professional growth of a small team of scientists and research associates, fostering a high-performance, collaborative culture within the Genomics group. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in utilizing high-throughput next generation sequencing instruments/platforms such as Illumina and Nanopore. The successful candidate will be energetic, inquisitive, and excel in a highly collaborative and multi-disciplinary environment. The successful candidate will join a team of experienced scientists to support cutting-edge genomics projects, bringing both hands-on technical expertise and the leadership skills needed to coordinate team workflows, set priorities, and ensure project milestones are met.

In this role, you will:

• Own end-to-end NGS operations, ensuring high quality data output for internal stakeholders.
• Lead NGS team on developing NGS workflows for Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms.
• Design and execute multi-platform sequencing strategies spanning whole-genome, targeted amplicon, RNA-seq, and single-cell applications to support Discovery research goals.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts for library prep failures, run quality outliers, and instrument issues - documenting root cause analysis and corrective actions in the lab knowledge base.
• Serve as the primary technical liaison between the Genomics group and bioinformatics partners, defining data formats, QC thresholds, and handoff standards for downstream analysis pipelines.
• Author and maintain SOPs, technical reports, and experimental summaries with the rigor expected in a regulated R&D environment.
• Evaluate emerging NGS technologies and reagent kits - building internal validation frameworks and presenting findings to scientific leadership with clear recommendations.
• Mentor scientists and research associates on NGS techniques, supporting a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning within the team.
• Present data, technical strategies, and project updates to diverse audiences including project teams and leadership.
• Ensure full compliance with IDEXX safety, ethical conduct, and materials handling standards in all laboratory activities.

What You Need to Succeed

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genomics, or a closely related discipline with a least 5-7 years of industry experience in an NGS role, particularly in oncology NGS, is required.
• Hands-on proficiency with Illumina (NovaSeq, NextSeq, MiSeq) and Oxford Nanopore instruments, including instrument operation, maintenance, and flow cell management.
• Proven experience with diverse library types: WGS, targeted amplicon, RNA-seq, single-cell, and low-input protocols from DNA and RNA across varying sample quality levels.
• Proficiency in upstream data QC tools (FastQC, MultiQC), familiarity with downstream analysis concepts, and ability to interpret bioinformatics outputs to inform experimental decisions.
• Track record of working effectively in cross-functional, multi-disciplinary teams. Excellent written and oral communication skills; comfortable presenting to scientific and non-scientific audiences.
• Experience with PCR-based assay development, single-cell sequencing (10x Genomics or equivalent), and/or knowledge of veterinary or diagnostic applications of genomics technologies is preferred.

What you can expect from us:

• Salary range starting at $125,000 based on experience
• Opportunity for annual cash bonus
• Health / Dental / Vision Benefits Day-One
• 5% matching 401k
• Additional benefits including but not limited to financial support, pet insurance, mental health resources, volunteer paid days off, employee stock program, foundation donation matching, and much more

If you're looking for a role that'll challenge you, offer a variety of work and learning, while helping an amazing industry, we'd love to hear from you!

About the job location:

If you're thinking about relocating for this role, here are a few things to know about living in Maine (often called "Vacationland"). The Westbrook, ME area provides great access to active downtown areas and the outdoors, with the coast and numerous mountains and hiking trails nearby. You'll also find a number of large companies like ours in the area, creating a vibrant work culture.

You can learn more on the Portland tourism website: https://www.visitportland.com/visit/resources/moving-to-maine/