Senior Research Associate- Diagnostic Assay Development

Senior Research Associate
- Diagnostic Assay Development

Pleasanton, California, USA HQ

10x Genomics is establishing a diagnostics effort, translating our leading single cell and spatial assay technologies into impactful clinical applications. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Research Associate to join the Diagnostic Assay Development team. The SRA will be a key contributor, executing the technical development, optimization, and rigorous testing of novel Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs) in a dynamic, high‑growth environment.

This role, reporting to the Sr. Manager, Diagnostic Assay Development, requires extensive hands‑on experience in advanced molecular biology techniques and a dedication to high‑quality data generation in support of ambitious product development goals.

• Hands‑on execution of complex single‑cell and spatial genomics assays (e.g., sample processing, library preparation, sequencing).
• Systematically troubleshoot, optimize, and refine specific steps within the assay workflow to improve performance, robustness, and efficiency.
• Perform feasibility studies on new reagents, instrumentation, and process improvements for clinical readiness.
• Prepare and process samples in support of large‑scale clinical research studies.

• Generate and maintain meticulous laboratory records, protocols (SOPs), and batch records following Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
• Execute formal experiments for analytical validation studies, including assessment of accuracy, precision, limit of detection, and reproducibility.
• Ensure all work is conducted under appropriate quality controls.
• Present experimental data clearly and concisely in team meetings and written reports.

• Support the transfer of robust assay workflows to the CLIA operations team.
• Collaborate closely with R&D Scientists, Automation Engineers, and Bioinformatics teams to meet project milestones.
• Work closely with the internal lab operations team to support the maintenance of a high‑quality, organized laboratory environment, including inventory management and forecasting, equipment calibration, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

• B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related scientific field.
• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in molecular diagnostics or genomics assay development in an industry setting (B.S.) or 3+ years (M.S.).
• Direct, demonstrable experience with advanced molecular technologies, particularly Next‑Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows.
• Exceptional proficiency in nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, and NGS library preparation.
• A proven track‑record of using, optimizing, and troubleshooting molecular biology protocols.
• Experience working with challenging clinical sample types (e.g., FFPE tissue, primary tumor cells, low‑input samples).
• Experience working within a quality system or environment governed by CLIA, CAP, or ISO 13485 standards strongly preferred.
• Prior hands‑on experience with 10x Genomics single‑cell or spatial technologies (e.g., Chromium or Xenium platforms) is a strong advantage.
• Experience with automated liquid handling for high‑throughput assay execution is a strong advantage; experience with microscopy techniques a plus.

• Ability to organize, analyze, and interpret complex data sets (e.g., assay metrics, quality control data) and effectively troubleshoot issues based on results.
• Commitment to rigorous execution, meticulous record‑keeping, and high standards of scientific quality.
• Excellent communication skills; can collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and integrate feedback into experimental design.
• Thrives in fast‑paced environments, excels at managing multiple priorities, adapting to change, and consistently delivering results.

$97,700 - $132,100 USD

At 10x Genomics, accelerating our understanding of biology is more than a mission for us. It is a commitment. This is the century of biology, and the breakthroughs we make now have the potential to change the world. We enable…