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.
Job Title: Scientist - Assay R&D
Location: Cambridge (onsite)
Job Type: Full-time
Experience Level: early‑career
Are you an early‑career scientist with a strong foundation in molecular biology or biochemistry, looking to develop your skills in an industry R&D environment while contributing to impactful genomics technologies? If so, this role offers the opportunity to grow your capabilities while working alongside experienced scientists on cutting‑edge assay development.
Why Us
Guided by Illumina’s commitment to integrity, collaboration, and impact, you will work alongside experienced scientists across disciplines to turn scientific ideas into robust products that help advance biological discovery and improve human health. This is an exciting early‑career opportunity to grow your technical and analytical skills in a supportive, fast‑paced R&D environment.
Why You
As a Scientist 1, you will conduct molecular biology and biochemistry experiments with guidance from senior team members as part of Illumina’s global Assay R&D team. Your work will generate data to inform project decisions and help develop your analytical skills for independent analysis. This early-career role offers growth in a dynamic environment. We seek a candidate who is collaborative, organized, and communicates well.
Responsibilities will include
- Execution of molecular biology and biochemistry lab-based experimentation
- Experiments may include analysis of nucleic acids by electrophoresis, quantitative PCR or fluorescence
- Operation of state-of-the-art equipment including Illumina sequencers and high throughput liquid handling robots
- Analysis and summary of experimental data
- Communication and presentation of results to local and global project teams
- Recording and documentation of procedures and results
- Handling of biological hazards in a safe environment
- Collaboration with other scientists including bioinformaticians and chemists
Skills and qualifications
We are looking for candidates who ideally have experience or exposure to the following skills:
- A degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics or related field with 0-2 years experience in a laboratory R&D environment
- Sound laboratory skills and solid understanding of relevant scientific principles
- Experience of molecular biology and handling of nucleic acids and/or proteins
- Experience of preparing libraries for sequencing is desirable
- Strong communication, record keeping and presentation skills
- A broad scientific knowledge (e.g. instrumentation, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, software) is desirable
What Can You Expect
Our team members are bright, energetic, and dedicated – they are the driving force behind our innovation and impact. To attract the best and brightest, we offer a competitive employee benefits programme. We view it as a smart investment in our people, one that recognises the tremendous value they bring to our business every day.
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.
