Principal Scientist , Molecular Lab Research and Early Development

The Principal Scientist I brings technical depth and breadth, curiosity, and creativity to develop novel molecular diagnostic assays. The goal is to build sequencing assays on the revolutionary Axelios Sequencing platform and translate the potential of Sequencing by Expansion (SBX) technology into real‑world assays that benefit patients.

• Join a diverse local team of dedicated scientists, role‑model leadership, mentor junior scientists, and champion scientific rigor.
• Prototype and optimize sequencing assay workflows, aligning pharma project needs, designing and implementing rigorous experiments, and applying innovative procedures to enable end‑to‑end solutions.
• Proactively identify issues, troubleshoot assays, and resolve technical challenges using broad knowledge of molecular biology techniques.
• Collaborate closely with the commercial team, external pharma partners, and internal bioinformatics colleagues to implement and analyze novel workflows, furthering pharma collaborations.
• Translate complex data into meaningful interpretations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Support the adoption of Axelios sequencing technology and grow the pharma service business by executing pilot collaboration projects, creating technical documentation (including SOPs), and supporting assay transfer to the CLIA laboratory.
• Identify and champion new technological opportunities, contributing to the strategic direction of the R&D organization.

• PhD in Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or related field.
• Minimum 5+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Deep understanding of molecular biology in NGS workflows beyond routine library preparation.
• Demonstrated experience designing and optimizing novel NGS workflows.
• Ability to critically examine assay workflows and troubleshoot unfamiliar issues.
• Experience with diagnostic assay development, including regulatory framework for RUO, LDT, or IVD assays.
• Proficiency interpreting standard bioinformatics pipeline outputs and sequencing metrics for genomic analysis.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Strong organizational skills, able to evaluate, prioritize, and handle multiple evolving projects in a timely manner.

• Experience beyond standard library preparation (e.g., single‑cell sequencing, protein detection by sequencing, spatial sequencing).
• Experience with various NGS instruments (Element, Ultima, Pac Bio, Oxford).
• Experience automating sequencing workflows on Hamilton or Tecan platforms.
• Strong record of innovation, demonstrated by publications and patents.
• Proficiency in technical writing.

Location:

Pleasanton, CA. This position is based on‑site (4+ days) with no relocation support. Salary range: $111,000 - $206,500. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available.

Roche is an equal‑opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company’s policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to discrimination on the basis of protected veteran status, disability status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing the Accommodations for Applicants form.