Scientist 1 (Chemistry / Biochemistry)
Job Description
Illumina is the global leader in next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology. Through relentless innovation, Illumina has helped dramatically reduce the cost of sequencing a human genome, enabling broader use of NGS in research and clinical applications, including cancer diagnostics and genetic testing. We invite you to join us in our effort to improve human health by unlocking the power of the genome.
We are currently looking for a Scientist 1 to join our Materials Science and Surface Chemistry group in Singapore. This role is well suited for a resourceful, hands-on scientist with broad scientific interests who enjoys working in a fast-paced, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research environment. As part of the team, you will contribute to the development and characterization of new materials and surface chemistries for future sequencing and library preparation technologies.
Position Summary
As a Scientist 1 within Illumina’s Research and Development team, you will work as part of a multidisciplinary research team to support the development of new sequencing methods. Primary responsibilities include hands-on experimental execution, optimization, data analysis, documentation, and analytical characterization of materials and surface properties, in collaboration with senior scientists and cross-functional partners.
Responsibilities:
Performs experiments of varying complexity across a broad range of techniques, identifies technical issues, and contributes to troubleshooting and resolution with appropriate guidance
Plans and conducts well-controlled experiments, summarizes results, and communicates data-driven conclusions to support team decision-making
Contributes to ongoing internal research projects in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
Maintains detailed laboratory notebooks and prepares reports, updates, and summaries for managers and project teams as directed
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.
Position requirements:
B.Sc./B.Eng. in a relevant field such as chemistry, biochemistry, biochemical engineering, chemical engineering, biomaterials, or an equivalent discipline
Approximately 0-2 years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience in an academic or industrial research setting
Ability to execute experiments productively and accurately, with strong attention to documentation, data quality, and laboratory safety
Ability to design and execute experiments with appropriate controls under guidance, and to contribute to troubleshooting technical issues
Strong ability to collaborate across disciplines with team members and internal partners
Ability to communicate experimental results clearly through written updates, reports, and technical discussions
All listed requirements are deemed essential functions of this position; however, business conditions may require reasonable accommodations or additional tasks and responsibilities.
Preferred Skills and Experience:
Experience in surface chemistry, including modification or functionalization of inorganic or polymer surfaces
Knowledge or hands-on experience in bioconjugation chemistry
Experience with fluorescence-based assays and fundamentals of DNA biochemistry
Experience in molecular biology techniques such as PCR and qPCR
Demonstrated ability to learn quickly and adapt to the requirements of new projects
Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment
Positive, proactive attitude and willingness to take on new challenges
Industrial research experience is preferable
We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative 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 offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. 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. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. 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. The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants.