Scientist 1

About the role

Illumina is hiring a Scientist 1 to join its Reagent Sciences team in Singapore. The role supports scientific research and development focused on reagent stabilization, including formulation work and lyophilization process characterization, to improve the reagents used in NGS and microarray consumables.

This opportunity is for someone who wants to contribute to genomic technologies that can improve health outcomes at scale. You will be part of a collaborative environment where scientists, engineers, and other specialists work together on new sequencing methods and higher-performing consumables.

What you'll do

In this position, you will independently carry out assigned experiments while also working under guidance when needed. The work involves moderate to advanced lab studies, careful documentation, data interpretation, and contributing to the stability and robustness of reagent systems.

• Plan and run experiments of moderate to advanced complexity using a wide range of laboratory methods.
• Record detailed observations in lab notebooks, Confluence pages, and other technical documentation.
• Analyze results, summarize conclusions, and propose follow-up experiments or alternative approaches.
• Own specific lab processes and help maintain smooth laboratory operations.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings clearly to local leadership.
• Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams to solve complex reagent-related problems.
• Use statistical methods to support experimental decisions and data interpretation.

What we're looking for

The ideal candidate is technically strong in the lab, comfortable with moderately complex experimental design, and capable of troubleshooting issues when experiments do not go as expected. You should be able to interpret data from complex studies and communicate clearly across teams and stakeholder groups.

• Strong hands-on laboratory ability and good productivity in experimental work.
• Ability to design and execute experiments with suitable controls and troubleshoot as needed.
• Comfort reading and drawing conclusions from complex datasets.
• Effective collaboration skills across disciplines and with internal stakeholders.
• Clear communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages and presentations to different audiences.

Preferred background

A cover letter will be given priority during review. The company is looking for someone with a relevant bachelor’s degree and experience in related scientific or industrial settings. Prior exposure to enzyme-based reagents, lyophilization, or large-scale lab processes would be beneficial, though not all of these are mandatory.

• B.Sc. or B.Eng. in a relevant field such as biochemistry, biochemical engineering, chemical engineering, biomaterials, or a similar discipline.
• Experience in biochemical, pharmaceutical, chemical, or a comparable industry is preferred.
• Knowledge of enzymes used in NGS sample preparation or methylation assays, such as transposes, ligases, TET, or APOBEC, is an advantage.
• Experience with pilot-scale or large lab-scale lyophilization processes, or large-scale cell culture/fermentation of 20 litres or more, is helpful.
• Understanding of protein biochemistry, protein engineering, and protein structure is a plus.
• Exposure to Next Generation Sequencing is advantageous but not required.

Additional information

Illumina emphasizes an inclusive workplace where employees are encouraged to contribute, share perspectives, and grow. The company states that it maintains equal pay across gender, ethnicity, and race, and supports employee resource groups that promote development, cultural awareness, and social responsibility.

Applicants should note that background checks may be conducted after a conditional offer is made. Candidates with arrest or conviction records will be considered in line with applicable local, state, and federal laws. A conditional offer may be withdrawn depending on the background check outcome, subject to applicable legal requirements.

Illumina does not permit the use of generative AI during the application or interview process. If accommodation is needed for the application or interview, candidates should contact the provided accommodations email. The position will remain open until a final candidate is chosen or until there are enough qualified applicants. This role does not support visa sponsorship.