Senior Research Scientist, Genomics

Key Skills

Java Programming, Python Programming, SQL, R Programming

Job Description

At Freenome, our goal is to improve patient outcomes by pioneering the next-generation of blood tests for early and accurate disease detection using our combined multi-omics and machine learning platform. As a (Senior) Research Scientist in Genomics, 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 our understanding of the biological context of these assay signals in cancer. In this role, you will evaluate emergent technologies that have the potential to improve our diagnostic tests, collect and analyze NGS datasets (including genomics, epigenomics, and transcriptomics) for biomarker discovery, and augment existing multi-omic models with novel signals you discover. You will also work closely with computational biologists and machine learning scientists to provide biological and technical insights, and to provide new data sources to enhance ongoing computational research projects.

How you’ll contribute:

• Apply fundamental understanding of molecular biology, nucleic-acid biochemistry, and NGS to develop new molecular assays that span both genome-wide and targeted strategies.
• Stay at the cutting edge of NGS methodology to identify and evaluate new technologies to improve our multi-omics capabilities.
• Refine existing NGS assays by characterizing assay performance and implementing workflow and protocol improvements (including nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, and downstream analysis).
• Investigate the biological origin of blood-based biomarkers by performing detailed characterization of cell-free material, tumors, and the immune system. 
• Drive biomarker discovery studies that leverage both in-house generated datasets and published reference databases.
• Collaborate with computational biologists and software engineers to build analysis pipelines that appropriately integrate new molecular technologies.

What you’ll bring:

• PhD (or equivalent industry experience) in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, cancer biology, immunology, or a related field.
• 3+ years post-PhD experience in NGS assays (for Senior-level Research Scientist).
• Proven track record of implementing new methods for NGS-based protocols that go beyond commercially available kits.
• Ability to perform basic NGS data analysis to enable experimental iteration independent of external support.
• Clear communication skills and ability to collaborate with team members in the same and adjacent disciplines.

• Valuable supplementary skills include:
• Deep understanding of cancer biology and experience working with publicly available datasets used to interrogate molecular mechanisms (e.g., TCGA)
• Experience with methods for DNA methylation analysis (e.g., bisulfite sequencing), leading to successful publication, patent filing, funding, or other project completion milestones.
• Fluency in a common scientific programming language (e.g., Python or R).
• Experience working with liquid handling platforms for high-throughput research projects.
• Experience mentoring and training research associates.

Freenome has adopted a COVID-19 vaccination policy to safeguard the health and well-being of our employees. As a condition of employment, our employees working on-site are required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, unless a reasonable accommodation is approved or as otherwise required by law.