Staff Scientist

Position Summary:

Based at our Headquarters in San Diego we require a Scientist to join our Research & Development department as a Materials / Surface Chemist in a permanent role.

As part of the Materials and Applied Surface Science group, you will play an integral role in developing new sequencing and array technologies and related applications. As the company moves fast so does the technology we use: the candidate will have to be adaptable to a wide range of techniques and methods used in life-sciences and have a strong desire to persistently innovate.

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop and troubleshoot assays, chemistry and methods for monitoring interactions between molecules/biomolecules and polymeric materials on surfaces
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing enzymatic reactions and chemistries to create robust products and qualitative leaps in performance
• Develop and implement tools, metrologies and test methods for the characterization of micro- and nanoparticles, polymers, hydrogels and other materials
• Take the initiative to innovate in their areas of expertise and contribute to Illumina's IP portfolio as an Independent Researcher
• Gather, organize and analyze large data sets
• Work independently and within multi-disciplinary project teams of scientists, engineers, programmers, and project coordinators
• Excellent communication skills with colleagues and supervisors through oral updates, written reports and technical presentations at meetings.

Listed responsibilities are an essential, but not exhaustive list, of the usual duties associated with the position. Changes to individual responsibilities may occur due to business needs.

Requirements:

• 5-10 years of Industry experience (preferred) or post-doctoral experience
• PhD in related field (Chemistry, Material Science, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or Physics)
• Bio-conjugation and bio-functionalization experience of metal/glass/polymer surfaces required.
• Experience developing assays and analyzing datasets for quantification of surface chemistry required.
• Experience with the handling, functionalization, and characterization of nanoparticles highly preferred.
• Hands-on knowledge of characterization tools for surface reactions (fluorescence microscopy, FRET, qPCR, etc) highly desired
• Experience with DNA sequencing, biochemical assays or molecular biology techniques preferred
• Ability to code custom scripts and utilize tools such as Matlab, Python, Labview etc. for hardware control, data and image analysis helpful
• Evidence of achievement and innovation through an excellent academic track record, publications, and patents.

All listed requirements are deemed as essential functions to this position; however, business conditions may require reasonable accommodations for additional task and responsibilities.

Concerns regarding COVID-19 continue as positive cases are experienced in the communities in which we operate. Please be aware that, as a condition of employment, Illumina may require proof of COVID vaccination in accordance with local statutory requirements (subject to limited exceptions) beginning November 1, 2021.

At Illumina, we strive to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace by cultivating an environment in which everyone contributes to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always been rooted in openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative views and perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and demonstrate our collective commitment to diversity and inclusion in the communities we live and work. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact [email protected]. To learn more, visit: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf