GRAIL is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join the Computational Biology team. In this role you will work with population-scale genomic datasets from our on-market commercial product and first-in-class clinical studies to model real-world interactions between technical, biological and clinical factors that underlie current test performance and gain insights into future innovations.
You will be developing novel, state-of-the-art methods and tools that will be used to monitor the output of our in-production multi-cancer classifier. Your work will be critical to the success of a new generation of cancer detection products by defining the parameters that ensure a high level of classifier performance over time. The team works cross-functionally across Grail to connect the knowledge behind our advanced cancer detection technology with the clinical variables that define real-world usage as the product scales to large-scale adoption. The position is an exciting opportunity at the intersection of machine learning and clinical genomics to support GRAIL’s mission to detect cancer early, when it can be cured.
This role is based in Sunnyvale, California. It offers a flexible work arrangement, with the ability to work from GRAIL's office or from home. Our current flexible work arrangement policy requires that a minimum of 40%, or 16 hours, of your total work week be on-site. Your specific schedule, determined in collaboration with your manager, will align with team and business needs and could exceed the 40% requirement for the site. At our Menlo Park campus, Tuesdays and Thursdays are the key days where we encourage on-site presence to engage in events and on-site activities.
Responsibilities:
- Analyze complex high-dimensional datasets related to multi-cancer early detection test results from Grail’s commercial platform in order to identify empirical trends and then communicate findings across teams.
- Integrate cancer biology, DNA methylation, genomics, epidemiology, and statistics to generate predictive models of expected test performance and identify potential deviations.
- Participate in cross-functional interactions with interdisciplinary teams including machine learning, software engineering, clinical, laboratory operations, research, and product development.
- Create and communicate rigorous scientific analyses.
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Data Science, Computational Biology, Physics, Bioengineering, Cancer Genomics, Statistics, Biochemistry or a related field with 2+ years of relevant experience
- Proven track record in working with large-scale omics datasets in R (preferred) or Python.
- Experience with NGS data processing, statistical modeling, and machine learning frameworks and their application to derive technical and biological insights in a clinical setting
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills; ability to work independently and effectively across interdisciplinary environments.
- Demonstrated ability to perform rigorous and detail-oriented work.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge of cancer epigenetics, cancer biology, tumor genetics, and molecular mechanisms of oncogenesis
- Experience with traditional ML and modern AI techniques
- Track record of scientific contributions (e.g., publications, tools, datasets, patents, or conference presentations)
- Proficiency in Python or R, with experience in modern data science workflows (Linux, Git, reproducible pipelines, etc…)
- Interest in translating research innovations into production-ready systems
This role may be eligible for other forms of compensation, including an annual bonus and/or incentives, subject to the terms of the applicable plans and Company discretion. This range reflects a good-faith estimate of the range that the Company reasonably expects to pay for the position upon hire; the actual compensation offered may vary depending on factors such as the candidate’s qualifications. Employees in this role are also eligible for GRAIL’s comprehensive and competitive benefits package, offered in accordance with our applicable plans and policies. This package currently includes flexible time-off or vacation; a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match; medical, dental, and vision coverage; and carefully selected mindfulness programs.
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 [email protected] 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!
Skills Required
- Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Data Science, Computational Biology, Physics, Bioengineering, Cancer Genomics, Statistics, Biochemistry or related field with 2+ years relevant experience
- Proven track record working with large-scale omics datasets (experience in R preferred or Python)
- Experience with NGS data processing, statistical modeling, and machine learning frameworks applied in a clinical setting
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills; ability to work independently across interdisciplinary teams
- Demonstrated ability to perform rigorous and detail-oriented scientific analyses
- Knowledge of cancer epigenetics, cancer biology, tumor genetics, and molecular mechanisms of oncogenesis
- Experience with traditional machine learning and modern AI techniques
- Track record of scientific contributions (publications, tools, datasets, patents, or conference presentations)
- Proficiency in Python or R and modern data science workflows (Linux, Git, reproducible pipelines)
- Interest in translating research innovations into production-ready systems
GRAIL Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Healthcare Strength — Multiple medical plan options, comprehensive medical/dental/vision coverage, and strong mental health programs are described, with employer HSA contributions up to $3,000 for the HDHP. These elements indicate a well‑rounded health offering.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Flexible time off is highlighted, with examples of unlimited/FTO policies working well in practice. Paid holidays and company winter breaks further support time away from work.
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Equity Value & Accessibility — New‑hire equity grants that vest over four years and a discounted Employee Stock Purchase Plan are positioned as meaningful parts of total compensation. Ongoing eligibility for additional equity is also noted.
GRAIL Insights
What We Do
GRAIL is a healthcare company whose mission is to detect cancer early, when it can be cured. GRAIL is using the power of high-intensity sequencing, population-scale clinical studies, and state-of-the-art computer science and data science to enhance the scientific understanding of cancer biology, and to develop and commercialize pioneering products.
Why Work With Us
Everything we do is guided by our mission to detect cancer early, when it can be cured. It’s the reason we’re here, and it’s no small task. The right people make all the difference. That’s why we’re looking for those who strive to share their knowledge, contribute their skills, inspire each other and commit to something bigger than themselves.
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GRAIL Offices
Hybrid Workspace
Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work.
GRAIL has a variety of work types depending on the roles. Some roles are onsite like a lab role, some are fully remote like our Galleri Sales Consultant roles. Others are hybrid with 2-3 days onsite. Typically Tuesday and Thursday.












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