Postdoctoral Fellow – Materials Engineering & Advanced Microfabrication - Next-Gen Sequencing and Diagnostics Systems, Research & Early Development

Roche • Santa Clara, CA

10d • $100,000 - $106,000 • Onsite

About The Position

At Roche, we are developing the next-generation of sequencing systems. By accelerating clinical research, streamlining workflows, and expanding assay menus, we are also broadening access to genomic data and lowering barriers to adoption. From robust sample isolation and preparation tools to novel sequencing technology and advanced bioinformatics, we are developing differentiated, highly integrated end-to-end solutions for next-generation sequencing workflows. We are seeking a talented and highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow with a proven track record of excellence in developing novel technology using advanced materials and microfabrication techniques. Joining our Systems Technology Group, you will play a major role in the Research and Early Development of new technology, devices, and instruments associated with our next-generation DNA sequencing and molecular diagnostic platforms. At the heart of these instruments are highly integrated microfluidic systems capable of automating intricate workflows and handling complex biochemistry. To gear up for these ambitious goals, your near-term focus will involve deep, hands-on training with our foundational efforts. You will assist with current projects to master our chemistry, materials, and methods, gaining critical expertise in how we design, fabricate, bond, simulate, operate, characterize, and troubleshoot complex systems and processes. This is a hands-on, interdisciplinary role designed to bridge the gap between biochemical applications and cutting-edge instrumentation. Collaborating closely with a small, agile team and the broader organization, you will solve challenging problems, invent new technology, and ultimately advance the state-of-the-art in DNA sequencing systems. A cover letter is required for this position.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Engineering, Materials Science, Bioengineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Biophysics, Nanotechnology, Micro-Systems Engineering, or a closely related discipline with a thesis focused on solving a chemical or molecular biology problem with clever materials engineering and advanced microfabrication techniques.
• Solid understanding of physics, engineering and chemistry fundamentals.
• Demonstrated experience with advanced microfabrication techniques (lithography, thin-film deposition, wet and dry etching of metals and inorganic materials, and thermal fusion bonding processes).
• Demonstrated success porting complex chemical or biochemical assays or workflows onto novel fluidic systems and optimizing performance using a systematic approach.
• Demonstrated experience with Python scripting for instrument hardware control.
• Demonstrated passion for science and technology; you have a natural curiosity regarding technical, business, and market trends.
• Experience setting priorities, working with a sense of urgency and being proactive.

Nice To Haves

• Solid publication record, including at least one first-authored and peer-reviewed publication in a top-tier journal.
• Experience designing and testing microfluidic systems with active components and integrated sensors.
• Experience building, operating, and troubleshooting fixtures or breadboards with fluidic, pneumatic, thermal, and optical subsystems.
• Demonstrated level of proficiency in operating and interpreting data from analytical instruments (e.g., qPCR, dPCR, Bioanalyzer/TapeStation, Qubit, NanoDrop).
• Solid understanding of molecular biology and sequencing fundamentals.
• Experience work with complex problems, the demonstrated ability to see the bigger picture and a desire to challenge the status quo.

Responsibilities

• Design, fabricate, and assemble custom devices, fixtures, and breadboards using various rapid prototyping tools, including custom equipment.
• Develop and implement advanced microfabrication processes, including photolithography, deposition, etching, drilling, bonding, and dicing—and utilize precision metrology instruments to characterize components and evaluate manufacturing methodologies.
• Create and characterize new materials and bonding methodologies.
• Test, characterize, and troubleshoot complex fluidic systems and devices. Develop and optimize workflows on these systems while collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to drive technical progress.
• Generate comprehensive test plans, protocols, technical reports and invention disclosures to document findings and methodology.
• Select, procure, install, validate, operate, repair, and maintain lab/fab equipment and custom instrumentation.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Fully funded research expenses
• Access to world class seminars and networking opportunities with leading scientists

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree