Postdoc/Research Scientist – Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Zymo Research Corporation • Irvine, CA

9d • $70,000 - $11,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Zymo Research is looking for a dynamic individual to join our Research and Development, NGS Team! As a Scientist in the NGS group at Zymo Research, you will play a key role in driving innovation across next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, from RNA-Seq and epigenetics to metagenomics and microbiome analysis. You will design and execute high-impact research that shapes Zymo’s next wave of products and scientific discoveries. This role is ideal for an ambitious and creative scientist who can integrate molecular biology, sequencing technology, and bioinformatics to develop groundbreaking solutions. The successful candidate will collaborate extensively with the Bioinformatics, Automation, and Commercial/Marketing teams, translating scientific advances into robust, user-friendly tools and assays. You will also have the opportunity to grow into a leadership role overseeing the broader NGS department, encompassing epigenomics, genomics, microbiomics, and transcriptomics initiatives. Your work will directly contribute to Zymo’s mission of “making science simple”, delivering world-class NGS solutions that accelerate discovery and clinical translation. Join us in making a meaningful impact!

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Bioengineering, or a related discipline.
• Proven expertise in RNA biology, epigenetics, microbiomics, or other NGS-related areas.
• Hands-on experience in library preparation, sequencing platform operation, and data analysis.
• Strong publication record (minimum of two first-author peer-reviewed papers).
• Experience mentoring junior scientists or managing laboratory projects.

Nice To Haves

• Development of bioinformatics pipelines and integration of wet-lab and dry-lab workflows.
• Proven record in translating research into commercial NGS products or services.
• Familiarity with automation systems and high-throughput sequencing platforms such as Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, or PacBio.
• Knowledge of regulatory or quality standards such as ISO 13485, CLIA, or GLP.

Responsibilities

• Conceive, design, and execute innovative NGS-based methods and workflows for applications in RNA sequencing, epigenetics, metagenomics, and clinical diagnostics.
• Drive R&D projects from concept through validation and commercialization, ensuring scientific rigor, efficiency, and alignment with company goals.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging sequencing platforms and technologies (e.g., Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, PacBio, Element Biosciences) to maintain Zymo’s technological leadership.
• Identify opportunities to expand Zymo’s NGS portfolio into novel biological domains and multi-omics integration.
• Work closely with Bioinformatics to design, validate, and interpret complex sequencing datasets and analysis pipelines.
• Partner with Automation Engineers to streamline NGS workflows for scalability and reproducibility.
• Collaborate with Product Development and Marketing teams to define technical specifications, generate application data, and support product launch activities.
• Contribute to customer engagement efforts through beta testing, data-driven presentations, and scientific discussions.
• Supervise and mentor Research Associates, Technicians, and Interns, fostering a culture of scientific curiosity and excellence.
• Lead internal technical workshops and training sessions to disseminate best practices and promote innovation.
• Author technical reports, white papers, scientific publications, and conference presentations to communicate findings internally and externally.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation to deliver milestones efficiently.
• Maintain thorough documentation in compliance with Zymo’s policies, quality systems, and regulatory standards (e.g., ISO, CLIA).
• Ensure data integrity, reproducibility, and adherence to biosafety standards in all research activities.
• Stay current on advances in sequencing, automation, and data analytics through literature, conferences, and collaborations.
• Represent Zymo Research at scientific meetings, symposia, and academic partnerships.
• Help shape the strategic direction of the NGS group as it evolves into a multidisciplinary innovation hub.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance Coverages
• EAP Sessions
• Vacation Time plus Company Holidays
• Paid Sick Leave
• Generous 401(K) with matching
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Complimentary fruit, snacks, and beverages
• Complimentary catered lunches on Thursdays
• Complimentary EV Charging

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees