Scientist – Assay Development

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.

Based at Illumina Lab Services – Hinxton, Cambridge

One Year Fixed Term Contract

Are you passionate about cutting-edge molecular biology and next-generation sequencing (NGS)? Do you enjoy solving complex problems, optimizing assays, and driving innovation from concept to implementation? If so, we want you to join our Assay Development Team!

About the Role

As a Scientist in our Assay Development Team, you will play a pivotal role in evaluating, developing, and implementing new technologies and multi-omics assays in a high-throughput clinical laboratory. You’ll be at the forefront of translating groundbreaking science into operational workflows that impact real-world clinical testing. Your expertise in experimental design, troubleshooting, and molecular biology will be key in shaping the future of our services.

What You’ll Do

• Design and execute experiments to evaluate and optimize new technologies.
• Troubleshoot NGS workflows and resolve issues to ensure smooth project and operational outcomes.
• Lead technical projects, investigations, and cross-functional collaborations.
• Analyze and interpret data to ensure robust and reliable results.
• Write clear experimental protocols, reports, and documentation in line with our Quality Management System.
• Present findings and technical recommendations to stakeholders in both formal and informal settings.
• Mentor and train team members on workflows and new technologies.
• Collaborate with teams across Operations, Bioinformatics, Software Development, Quality, and R&D to drive product development and sustainment.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong background in molecular biology and nucleic acid-based protocols (DNA focus).
• Hands-on experience with NGS technologies.
• Familiarity with quality management systems and product development processes is a plus.
• Experience with automated liquid handling systems (e.g., Hamilton) and LIMS is desirable.
• Independent, innovative thinker with strong problem-solving skills.
• Highly analytical, organized, detail-oriented, and proactive.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

• Contribute to impactful, cutting-edge clinical research and development.
• Work in a collaborative, innovative, and supportive environment.
• Opportunity to take ownership of projects and make a tangible impact on clinical services.
• Access to state-of-the-art technologies and continuous learning opportunities.

If you’re ready to push the boundaries of molecular diagnostics and make a difference in patient care, apply now and join our mission-driven team!

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 accommodations@illumina.com. 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.