Principal Scientist I, Molecular Lab Research and Early Development

Roche•Pleasanton, CA

13d•Onsite

About The Position

At Roche, we are passionate about transforming patients' lives and are bold in both decision and action. We believe that good business means a better world. This is why we come to work each day, committed to scientific rigor, unassailable ethics, and ensuring access to medical innovations for all. We do this today to build a better tomorrow. 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.

Requirements

PhD in Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, (or a related field) with 5+ years of relevant industry experience
Deep understanding of molecular biology in NGS workflows beyond routine preparation of sequencing libraries.
Demonstrated experience designing and optimizing novel NGS workflows.
Demonstrated ability to critically examine assay workflows and troubleshoot unknown and unfamiliar issues.
Experience with diagnostic assay development, including a high level understanding of the regulatory framework for RUO, LDT, or IVD assays
Demonstrated proficiency in interpreting standard bioinformatics pipeline outputs and sequencing metrics for genomic analysis.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to identify areas of misalignment and collaborate effectively within and across teams.
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

Nice To Haves

Experience beyond standard library preparation from DNA or RNA, such as single-cell sequencing, protein detection by sequencing, or spatial sequencing.
Experience working with different NGS instruments (e.g. Element, Ultima, Pacbio, Oxford)
Experience with automating sequencing workflow on systems like the Hamilton or Tecan
A strong record of innovation, demonstrated by publications and patents.
Proficient in technical writing

Responsibilities

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-end solutions.
Proactively highlight issues, troubleshoot assays, and resolve technical challenges by applying broad knowledge of molecular biology techniques and accumulated experience.
Work closely with the commercial team, external pharma partners, and internal bioinformatics colleagues to implement and analyze novel workflows to further pharma collaborations.
Translate complex data into meaningful interpretations for internal and external stakeholders.
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.
Identify and champion new technological opportunities, contributing to the strategic direction of the R&D organization.