Our mission is to detect cancer early, when it can be cured. We are working to change the trajectory of cancer mortality and bring stakeholders together to adopt innovative, safe, and effective technologies that can transform cancer care.
We are a healthcare company, pioneering new technologies to advance early cancer detection. We have built a multi-disciplinary organization of scientists, engineers, and physicians and we are using the power of next-generation sequencing (NGS), population-scale clinical studies, and state-of-the-art computer science and data science to overcome one of medicine’s greatest challenges.
GRAIL is headquartered in the Bay Area of California, with locations in Washington, D.C., North Carolina, and the United Kingdom. It is supported by leading global investors and pharmaceutical, technology, and healthcare companies.
The Senior Scientist is an experienced scientific individual contributor responsible for investigating platform and assay performance issues, identifying root causes, and developing technical solutions to improve platform reliability and operational performance. As a member of the Operations Investigation Team (OIT), this role independently conducts scientific investigations, collaborates across functions, and drives continuous improvement through data-driven problem solving and process optimization.
This position works on-site full-time, 5 days/week at our office located in Durham, NC
Responsibilities:
- Independently design, plan, and execute experiments to investigate platform performance issues and support troubleshooting efforts.
- Analyze experimental data, identify root causes, and develop scientifically sound recommendations.
- Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot experimental methods, workflows, and analytical tools to improve platform robustness, reliability, and efficiency.
- Investigate sources of technical variability and recommend corrective and preventive actions.
- Prepare technical reports, presentations, and investigation summaries to communicate findings and recommendations.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, Operations, Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Data Science, to resolve platform-related issues.
- Provide technical expertise in experimental design, troubleshooting strategies, and data interpretation.
- Contribute to the development of new technologies, analytical tools, and process improvements that enhance platform performance.
- Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, quality, and applicable regulatory standards.
- These responsibilities summarize the role’s primary responsibilities and are not an exhaustive list. They may change at the company’s discretion.
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline with 2+ years of relevant experience; OR Master's degree with 5+ years of relevant experience; OR Bachelor's degree with 8+ years of relevant experience.
- Strong expertise in molecular biology, NGS technologies, assay development, or related experimental disciplines.
- Experience with laboratory or biotech automation platforms (e.g., liquid handlers, robotic workcells, automated sample-processing systems) is highly desirable.
- Proven experience independently designing and executing experiments and solving complex technical problems.
- Demonstrated experience conducting root-cause investigations and developing practical technical solutions.
- Strong scientific communication and technical presentation skills.
- Experience working in regulated laboratory environments is preferred.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Advanced troubleshooting, analytical, and root-cause investigation skills.
- Strong experimental design and data interpretation capabilities.
- Ability to manage multiple investigations and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills with cross-functional teams.
- Innovative, self-motivated, and results-oriented with a continuous improvement mindset.
Physical Demands and Environment:
- Work may be performed in laboratory and office environments with exposure to biological samples, chemicals, and laboratory equipment.
- Requires appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- May require extended hours to support critical investigations.
- Regular laboratory activities, including pipetting and operation of laboratory instrumentation.
The expected, full-time, annual base pay scale for this position is $122,000 - $147,000. Actual base pay will consider skills, experience, and location.
At GRAIL, we believe in recognizing and rewarding the contributions our employees make to our mission and success. In addition to base pay, this role may be eligible for additional compensation, including an annual bonus and/or other incentives, in accordance with applicable plans and the company's discretion. The posted range reflects our good-faith estimate of the base pay we expect to offer for this position at the time of hire. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as the candidate’s experience, skills, qualifications, and other relevant considerations.
At GRAIL, we invest in the health, well-being, and future of our employees and their families. Employees in this role are eligible for a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support what matters most, including flexible time off or vacation, a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and thoughtfully selected well-being programs. Benefits are offered in accordance with applicable plans and policies.
GRAIL is an equal employment opportunity employer, and we are committed to building a workplace where every individual can thrive, contribute, and grow. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other class or characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws. Additionally, GRAIL will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with applicable law and provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please contact us at rc@grailbio.com if you require an accommodation to apply for an open position.
GRAIL maintains a drug-free workplace. We welcome job-seekers from all backgrounds to join us!
