Research Scientist I/II

At Freenome, you will help develop assay technologies used to analyze patient samples and contribute to the mission of early detection and intervention in human disease.

As a Research Scientist I/II, you will provide experience in next-generation-sequencing (NGS)-based analyses of DNA. You will contribute to the program's technical base by creating and optimizing new next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays and workflows for DNA/RNA, or to the program's scientific base by elevating the understanding of the biological context of these assay signals in cancer.

Responsibilities:

• Independently design and execute experiments to help optimize the performance of Freenome's new or existing assays.
• Prototype new next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods, optimize the performance of existing assays, and execute biomarker discovery studies on clinical samples.
• Assist with project planning and timeline generation and work with cross-functional teams to coordinate tasks within and across projects.
• Take detailed notes, gather high-quality data, and openly communicate on lessons learned while performing experiments.
• Independently troubleshoot workflows and understand the rationale behind workflow optimization choices.
• Help with process improvements across the lab by thinking critically about the execution of all experiments.
• Perform advanced analysis and data visualization of results to answer experimental questions and guide next steps.
• Prepare and present experiment or project results at internal meetings, with clear articulation of goals, results, conclusions, and how results presented fit into broader project.

Requirements:

• PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, or a related field or Bachelor's or Master's with 8+ years experience post-Bachelor's in the life sciences (industry and/or academia).
• Hands-on experience with and expert-level knowledge in NGS-based workflows including sample preparation, library preparation, target capture, and sequencing.
• Biological understanding of human cell-free nucleic acids, single-cell analysis methods, immunology, and/or cancer biology.
• Ability to perform advanced data analysis and critically examine experimental results.
• Proven track record of designing and running successful experiments, preparing data for review, and giving effective scientific presentations.
• Clear and proactive communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with team members in the same and adjacent disciplines.
• Flexible and highly motivated to learn new skills and comfortable adapting to changing priorities.

Nice to haves:

• Ability to perform bioinformatic analysis in a scientific programming language (e.g., Python or R).
• Experience handling and preparing blood and/or tissue samples.
• Experience running high-throughput experimental designs and/or assays on an automated liquid handling platform.
• Experience using ELN (electronic lab notebook) and LIMS (lab information management system).

Benefits:

• The US target range of our base salary rate for new hires is $132,050 - $167,475.
• You will also be eligible to receive equity, cash bonuses, and a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits depending on the position offered.