Scientist 1 - Reagent Sciences

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?

At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.

Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

Scientist 1 - Reagent Sciences UK

Illumina is the worldwide leader in DNA sequencing and genomic technologies. Our innovative tools for DNA, RNA, and protein analysis are enabling rapid advances in disease research, drug development, and the development of molecular tests in the clinic.

As Scientist-1 in the Reagent Science Group within Advanced Science, you will work in a progressive, team-oriented environment and participate in the creation of new sequencing technologies and related applications. You will be a key contributor to multidisciplinary teams developing and improving leading-edge technology platforms. You will plan, initiate, and execute scientific studies and help with development strategies and product launches in collaboration with the team with ownership for individual studies.

The company moves fast, as does the technology that we use and the projects that we focus on. The ideal candidate is thus adaptable and enthusiastic to learn a wide range of techniques and methods used in life-sciences.

Responsibilities Will Include

• Development and optimisation of Next Generation Sequencing products and methodologies

• Optimization and execution of lab-based biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology experimentation to characterize new and existing reagents or enzymes, and processes to achieve commercial levels of stability, robustness, and performance

• Operation of state-of-the-art equipment including plate readers, microscopes and Illumina sequencers

• Effective communication and presentation of results to local and global project teams

• Highly accurate recording and documentation of procedures and results

• Collection, organisation and analysis of large data sets and distilling into key conclusions in consultation with project leaders.

• Working collaboratively with other teams and functions globally to meet company goals within a defined timeline and satisfy customer needs

Required Education, Experience & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 0-2 years of related experience; or an equivalent Masters degree; or equivalent work experience.

• Preferred degree in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Natural Sciences or a related field

• Motivated, enthusiastic, hard-working, positive individual who wants to be part of a fast-paced and progressive technology development Team.

• Understanding of nucleic acid biochemistry and the application of molecular biology techniques

• Excellent communication, record keeping and presentation skills

• Good understanding of statistical significance, replicates, controls

• Proficiency in standard computer skills, PowerPoint and Excel or other statistical packages, knowledge of a programming language would be a plus

Preferred Skills

• An ability to troubleshoot molecular biology and biochemistry issues

• Laboratory experience qPCR methods and DNA characterization and quantification would be desirable.

• A working knowledge of, or background in, Next Generation Sequencing and library construction would be advantageous, but is not essential

• Interest in expanding skillset into biophysical characterization (for example super resolution microscopy, molecular interaction characterization etc.)

What can you expect

With Illumina you can expect a highly competitive salary accompanied by a market leading benefits package. You will be part of the global leader in the Sequencing industry where you will find robust growth opportunities and career development within Illumina.

Our team members are bright, energetic and dedicated - they are the driving force behind our innovation and impact. To attract the best and brightest, we offer a competitive employee benefits program. We view it as a smart investment in our people, one that recognizes the tremendous value they bring to our business every day. At Illumina, we push boundaries. We think beyond the conventional. We dream big. With the energy of so many bright and accomplished people, the opportunities are endless.