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.
Senior Scientist (Analytical Chemistry), 1-Year FTC:
Cambridge
Onsite position based at Illumina's European Headquarters in Cambridge, UK
As a Senior Scientist, Analytical Chemistry here at Illumina in Cambridge, you will play a key role in the development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) products. Working within a highly collaborative product development environment, you will design and execute analytical studies, prepare and characterize samples, and generate high-quality data using HPLC and LC-MS. Your expertise will provide critical insights into the chemical processes that underpin Illumina's innovative technologies and contribute directly to advancing human health through genomic discovery. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams across research, development, and scientific functions to support the delivery of cutting-edge solutions for our customers.
Illumina's employee benefits are industry-leading and include, flexible time off, private medical insurance, compassion and care time off, leisure travel insurance, pension, employee stock purchasing program, volunteer time off, and much more!
Why You:
You are a highly motivated analytical chemist with a passion for scientific discovery and the ability to translate complex analytical data into meaningful insights. You will hold a PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline, or alternatively possess a BSc together with substantial industrial or applied research experience. You bring significant hands-on expertise in HPLC and LC-MS, coupled with strong theoretical and practical analytical chemistry knowledge.
Experience within a product development, manufacturing, or applied research environment will enable you to make an immediate impact. Knowledge of analytical method development and characterization of oligonucleotides would be highly advantageous, while experience using Agilent OpenLab or MassHunter software is desirable. You are comfortable working independently, highly organized, and capable of delivering high-quality results within agreed timelines.
Most importantly, you will thrive in a collaborative environment where cross-functional teamwork is essential. You embrace Illumina's Win Together value by building strong partnerships, sharing knowledge, and contributing to collective success while maintaining the highest standards of scientific excellence.
Prepare and analyze samples using HPLC and LC-MS
Develop and optimize analytical methods for the characterization of materials and processes
Contribute to scientific understanding through data interpretation and knowledge sharing
Maintain analytical instrumentation, methods, and standard operating procedures
Communicate experimental plans, results, and conclusions through written reports and presentations
Collaborate effectively with cross-functional project teams to support product development
PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline; alternatively, a BSc with substantial relevant industrial experience
Industrial experience in analytical chemistry within a product development, manufacturing, or applied research environment
Expertise in HPLC and LC-MS
Experience of method development and analysis of oligonucleotides would be an advantage
Experience with Agilent OpenLab or MassHunter software is advantageous
Strong theoretical and practical analytical chemistry skills
Proven ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team
Self-motivated, organized, and able to deliver high-quality results to agreed timelines
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
The estimated base salary range for the Senior Scientist, Analytical Chemistry (Maternity cover) role based in United Kingdom is GBP 36,200 - 54,200.

The range reflects long‑term growth in the role; therefore, most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. This salary range applies to the primary posting location listed above. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range will be updated accordingly. Compensation ranges for other locations will differ to reflect local market competitiveness and will be shared with candidates if applicable during the recruitment process.

Additionally, all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package.

We offer a thoughtfully designed benefits package that supports your wellbeing, flexibility, and life beyond work—combining globally differentiated offerings with locally tailored programs. This includes support during important life moments, flexible time off, opportunities to give back, and a weeklong company-wide summer shutdown. In the UK, we also offer flexible benefits, a company contribution of 10% into your pension, and private medical insurance, alongside additional benefits to support you and your family.
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.
