Postdoctoral Fellow Gen Sequencing Systems, Research & Early Development

Overview

At Roche, we develop next‑generation sequencing systems. We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to join the Systems Technology Group and contribute to research and early development of new technology, devices, and instruments associated with our DNA sequencing and molecular diagnostic platforms. The role bridges biochemical applications and cutting‑edge instrumentation, requiring hands‑on expertise in chemistry, materials, fabrication, bonding, simulation, operation, characterization, and troubleshooting of integrated microfluidic systems.

• Design, fabricate, and assemble custom devices, fixtures, and breadboards using rapid prototyping tools, including custom equipment.
• Develop and implement microfabrication processes such as photolithography, etching, drilling, bonding, and dicing; utilize precision metrology instruments to characterize components and evaluate manufacturing methodologies.
• Create and characterize new materials and bonding methodologies.
• Test, characterize, and troubleshoot complex fluidic systems and devices.
• Develop and optimize workflows on these systems while collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to drive technical progress.
• Generate comprehensive test plans, protocols, technical reports, and invention disclosures to document findings and methodology.
• Select, procure, install, validate, operate, repair, and maintain lab/fabrication equipment and custom instrumentation.

• Required: PhD in Bioengineering or a closely related discipline with a thesis focused on solving a molecular biology problem through engineering. Solid understanding of physics, engineering, chemistry, molecular biology, and sequencing fundamentals. Demonstrated experience with advanced microfabrication techniques (lithography, thin‑film deposition, wet/dry etching, thermal fusion bonding). Proven success in porting complex biochemical assays or workflows onto novel fluidic systems and optimizing performance.
  
  Solid publication record, including at least one first‑authored peer‑reviewed publication in a top‑tier journal. Experience with Python scripting for instrument hardware control. Demonstrated interest in market trends and foundational knowledge of peer work.
• Preferred: Experience designing and testing microfluidic systems with active components and integrated sensors. Experience building, operating, and troubleshooting fixtures or breadboards with fluidic, pneumatic, thermal, and optical subsystems. Proficiency in operating and interpreting data from analytical instruments (qPCR, dPCR, Bioanalyzer/Tape Station, Qubit, Nano Drop). Ability to see the bigger picture and challenge the status quo. Strong communication, decision‑making, problem‑solving, and time‑management skills.
  
  Ability to work effectively in a cross‑functional, fast‑paced environment.

• Salary range: $100,000 – $106,000 (based on Santa Clara, CA).
• Position based onsite in Santa Clara, CA. No relocation benefits provided.
• Eligible for company benefits as detailed at Roche Benefits.

Roche is an equal‑opportunity employer. Our policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to protected veteran status, individuals with disabilities, and is consistent with all federal, state, and local laws.