Scientist, R&D (Epigenomics)

TL;DR

Scientist, R&D (Epigenomics): Developing and advancing novel cell-free DNA diagnostic assays for cancer detection and disease monitoring with an accent on epigenetic signals like methylation. Focus on designing automated nucleic acid based diagnostic workflows and optimizing assay performance for clinical applications.

Location: San Carlos, CA (Onsite)

Salary: $116,800 – $146,000

Company

Global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health.

What you will do

• Independently plan and execute experiments to develop next-generation automated nucleic acid based diagnostic workflows.
• Design and optimize assays leveraging epigenetic signals (e.g., methylation) from cell-free DNA for clinical applications.
• Perform data analysis using JMP, R, Python, or Excel, and write study protocols and SOPs.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with data scientists and bioinformaticians.
• Generate reports and presentations to communicate findings to peers and management.
• Contribute insights toward experimental findings and troubleshoot laboratory processes.

Requirements

• PhD with 2 years of experience, or Master’s with a minimum of 5 years experience in assay development for the life science industry.
• Demonstrated focus on epigenetic research.
• Extensive hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (DNA manipulation, PCR, qPCR, DNA quantitation/analysis, hybrid capture).
• Degree in molecular biology, epigenomics, biochemistry, or closely related fields.
• Experience performing data analysis with Excel or JMP.

Nice to have

• Expertise in liquid biopsy assay development.
• Experience in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) combined with epigenetic techniques.
• Experience developing or executing assays using automated liquid handlers.
• Working knowledge of epigenetic analysis tools such as Bismark or methylKit.

Culture & Benefits

• Annual performance incentive bonus and long-term equity awards.
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Additional wellness and work-life benefits.