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Scientist II, Assay Development Location: San Diego, CA Job Type: Full-Time Salary $110,000 - $120,000 About Us We are a venture-backed, stealth-stage biotechnology company based in San Diego, focused on developing novel technologies that will redefine how disease is detected, characterized, and managed with a novel approach to clinical genomics. Our mission is to fundamentally transform healthcare through a convergence of innovation across multiple scientific disciplines. Founded by industry veterans with decades of experience in life sciences tools and diagnostics, our leadership team brings a proven track record of translating scientific insight into successful commercial products. Our investors include some of the most respected names in healthcare and deep tech. Position Overview We are seeking a Scientist II to support the development, optimization, and maturation of molecular methods for clinical next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays. This is a hands-on, bench-focused individual contributor role: executing the experiments that move nucleic acid extraction and library preparation methods from feasibility toward robust, automation-ready processes suitable for transfer to clinical lab operations. Working closely with senior scientists and process engineers, the Scientist II will run structured experiments, generate and analyze high-quality data, and contribute to the optimization of buffer formulations, reaction conditions, and process parameters that drive method performance and stability. The role is well suited to a scientist with strong molecular biology fundamentals and solid bench execution who is ready to grow toward independent method development in a rigorous, quality-oriented environment where methods are actively evolving. Key Responsibilities - Execute bench experiments that advance library preparation methods from feasibility toward production-ready performance. - Prepare and test buffer formulations and reaction conditions, and contribute to method optimization by generating and analyzing systematic, well-controlled data. - Execute systematic experiments, and perform data analysis to characterize method performance. - Run stability and robustness studies per established protocols, and summarize results clearly. - Support the transfer of bench methods including hands-on protocol execution, method-comparison runs, and troubleshooting. - Contribute to reagent QC by executing QC assays. - Support tech transfer and analytical validation activities through bench execution, troubleshooting, and documentation. - Maintain rigorous, well-organized experimental records (electronic lab notebook), generate clear data summaries and technical reports, and contribute to process and design documentation. - Collaborate with assay development, process engineering, automation, quality, and clinical operations to advance methods from feasibility through production. Qualifications Required: - BS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field with 3+ years of relevant laboratory experience; or MS with 2+ years; or a PhD in a relevant field. - Solid molecular biology and biochemistry fundamentals, with hands-on experience in library preparation and workflows. - Demonstrated bench proficiency in core techniques, with accurate, reproducible execution and strong attention to detail. - Working familiarity with structured experimental design and data analysis. - Rigorous, well-organized record-keeping and the ability to generate clear technical data summaries. - Ability to execute independently on assigned experiments and manage parallel bench work in a fast-moving, early-stage environment. Preferred: - Experience with low-input or other challenging workflows. - Hands-on experience with liquid handling platforms. - Exposure to a regulated or quality-driven environment and familiarity with design controls. - Programming or scripting experience (Python, R) for data ana