Scientist II, Assay DevelopmentLocation: San Diego, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary $110,000 - $120,000
Position OverviewWe 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.
QualificationsRequired:- 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.
