Principal Scientist I, Molecular Lab Research and Early Development

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We are seeking a Principal Scientist I to join our Molecular Lab, Research and Early Development Team, Oncology and Genetics. Within the Roche Diagnostics organization, our Research and Early Development teams are committed to making a tangible impact on the future of healthcare. The Principal Scientist I brings technical depth and breadth, curiosity, and the creativity to be an important contributor in developing novel molecular diagnostic assays. The goal will be to build sequencing assays on our revolutionary Axelios Sequencing platform and translating the immense potential of our Sequencing by Expansion (SBX) technology into real-world assays that can benefit patients. This is a hands-on, lab-based role where scientific excellence and a proactive, results-oriented mindset are paramount. You will spearhead innovative projects and key collaborations, driving the science from the initial idea to a fully realized solution. 

This is an opportunity for a visionary scientist to not only pioneer new workflows but to help shape the next generation of medical innovation.

The Opportunity

• You will join a diverse local team of dedicated and curious scientists where you will role-model leadership qualities, mentor junior scientists, and champion a culture of scientific rigor and innovation. 

• You will prototype and optimize different sequencing assay workflows by aligning pharma project needs, designing and implementing rigorous experiments, and applying established and innovative procedures to enable end-to-end solutions; You will proactively highlight issues, troubleshoot assays, and resolve technical challenges by applying broad knowledge of molecular biology techniques and accumulated experience

• You will work closely with the commercial team, external pharma partners, and internal bioinformatics colleagues to implement and analyze novel workflows to further pharma collaborations. You'll translate complex data into meaningful interpretations for internal and external stakeholders.

• You will support the adoption of Axelios sequencing technology and the growth of the pharma service business by executing pilot collaboration projects, creating technical documentations including standard operating protocols, and supporting assay transfer to the CLIA laboratory.

• You will identify and champion new technological opportunities, contributing to the  strategic direction of the R&D organization. 
   

This position is based on-site (4+ days) in Pleasanton, CA.
There is no relocation support.

Who You Are:
(Required)

• You have a PhD in Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, (or a related field) with 5+ years of relevant industry experience

• You have a deep understanding of molecular biology in NGS workflows beyond routine preparation of sequencing libraries.

• You have demonstrated experience designing and optimizing novel NGS workflows.

• You have demonstrated the ability to critically examine assay workflows and troubleshoot unknown and unfamiliar issues.

• You have experience with diagnostic assay development, including a high level understanding of the regulatory framework for RUO, LDT, or IVD assays

• You have demonstrated proficiency in interpreting standard bioinformatics pipeline outputs and sequencing metrics for genomic analysis.

• You have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to identify areas of misalignment and collaborate effectively within and across teams.

• You have excellent organizational skills, including the ability to efficiently evaluate, prioritize and handle multiple changing projects and priorities; you complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner 
   

Preferred:

• You have experience beyond standard library preparation from DNA or RNA, such as single-cell sequencing, protein detection by sequencing, or spatial sequencing.

• You have experience working with different NGS instruments (e.g. Element, Ultima, Pacbio, Oxford)

• You have experience with automating sequencing workflow on systems like the Hamilton or Tecan

• You have a strong record of innovation, demonstrated by publications and patents. 

• You are proficient in technical writing

The expected salary range for this position is based on the primary location of Pleasanton, CA  is $111,000 - $206,500. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law.  A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. 

This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.
Benefits

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A healthier future drives us to innovate. Together, more than 100’000 employees across the globe are dedicated to advance science, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Our efforts result in more than 26 million people treated with our medicines and over 30 billion tests conducted using our Diagnostics products. We empower each other to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep our ambitions high, so we can deliver life-changing healthcare solutions that make a global impact.

Let’s build a healthier future, together.

Roche is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

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