Scientist (Next Generation Sequencing)

  • Quest Diagnostics
  • San Juan Capistrano, California
  • Full Time
Overview

The Scientist's core responsibilities include planning, conducting and documenting complex molecular genetics experiments. They also analyze results and prepare reports related to product/process development. Activities may be focused individual projects or assignments as a member of a project team which may include project leadership duties.

Responsibilities
  • Under the direction of the Scientific Director, Lead Scientist or R&D Manager, initiate experimental design for assay development.
  • Conduct assay system development, optimization and validation.
  • Performs laboratory experiments following defined protocols and company procedures.
  • Reports status of assigned projects through the preparation of detailed reports and documentation that summarize experiment results.
  • Run experiments to evaluate new laboratory instrumentation and equipment for laboratory testing in cooperation with the equipment manufacturer.
  • Prepare technical SOP's as required for Medical or Scientific Director (licensed) review and approval.
  • Prepare assay validation reports and other assay-related documentation as defined by the licensed Scientific Director and Medical Director.
  • Work closely with informatics personnel to develop computer programs and databases as required for assay execution, automation and data management.
  • Under licensed supervision, assist and/or coordinate technical transfer of new assays and procedures to appropriate department.
  • Under licensed supervision, assist, as needed, in the training of lab personnel on new procedures.
  • Provide scientific supervision and guidance to research associates in the routine execution of their laboratory work.
  • Keep Scientific Director and/or R&D manager informed about status of on going projects.
  • Prepare written and oral presentations of scientific updates for R&D meetings and conferences.
  • Maintain awareness of current and developing technologies.
  • Interact with Academic Associates and other outside sources of emerging technologies, science and materials.
  • Add input to annual review for research personnel supervised while working on special projects.
  • Comply with industry regulatory and quality standards for the R&D Assay Design Control processes.
  • Assists licensed supervisor with troubleshooting, including reviewing procedural execution for possible cause of abnormal results. Carries out simple troubleshooting procedures and performs R&D problem solving experiments as instructed. Maintains knowledge of technological developments that may assist in the completion of an assignment or lead to new products, processes or procedures by reading current literature.
  • Effectively utilizes and applies advanced methods or technologies.
  • Contributes ideas for new product development typically within existing markets.
Qualifications

Required Work Experience:

  • 5-7 years relevant experience in a research and development laboratory for candidates with a BS/BA degree;
  • 2-5 years experience for candidates holding an MS/MA degree;
  • 0-2 years experience for candidates holding a Ph. D. degree.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time

Skills:

  • Experience with PCR technologies (SNaPshot, Real-time), Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) DNA/RNA library preparation workflows, microarrays, and/or third generation sequencing is a plus.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as professional journals, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to write complete reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively in one-on-one and small group situations.
  • Ability to apply mathematical concepts to problem-solving situations.
  • Ability to deal with problems involving several variables in a variety of situations.
  • Knowledgeable in the use of common laboratory equipment and safe chemical handling.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as professional journals, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Written and verbal communication skills.

EDUCATION Bachelors Degree (Required)Masters Degree

Doctoral Degree

EEO

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

Job ID: 477784677
Originally Posted on: 5/20/2025

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