R&D Scientist, NGS

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Predicta is building a molecular insights platform for blood cancer care. From a single blood sample, we generate longitudinal genomic and immune insights that help clinicians and researchers better understand disease biology, guide treatment decisions, and monitor disease evolution over time.

We are seeking a highly motivated R&D Scientist who will lead NGS assay development efforts, including whole genome sequencing and single-cell RNA-seq. The ideal candidate has a strong technical background in genomics and molecular biology, with experience developing highly robust and reproducible NGS assays deployed in clinical or research settings. This individual will play a key role in developing assays for the genomic characterization of tumor and immune cells, from low-input sample processing through NGS library preparation, sequencing, and quality control, translating early research concepts into clinical assays. This laboratory-based scientist should be passionate about developing cutting-edge genomic assays and will work closely with an inter-disciplinary and cross-functional team of other laboratory-based scientists and computational biologists, focused on improving blood-based cancer diagnostic capabilities.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize NGS assays for tumor cell and immune characterization
• Lead development and optimization of NGS workflows, including library preparation for whole genome sequencing, and single-cell RNA-seq (e.g., 10x Genomics)
• Optimize library preparation for low-input and limited samples, improving sensitivity, yield, library complexity, and reproducibility
• Oversee sequencing on Illumina platforms, including run planning, pooling, and loading strategies
• Evaluate and implement new technologies, reagents, and platforms across library preparation and sequencing to improve assay performance, robustness, and scalability
• Establish and maintain QC metrics, acceptance criteria, and assay validation practices across NGS workflows
• Collaborate closely with other R&D and computational biology team members to ensure seamless integration of wet-lab and analytical workflows
• Develop and document standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols, and technical reports suitable for regulated environments
• Maintain meticulous, reproducible records and contribute to shared protocols
• Follow, document, and adapt experimental protocols with care and precision
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to building best practices within the R&D organization
• Support technology transfer from R&D into product development and clinical operations as needed 

• PhD in molecular biology, genomics, genetics, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on laboratory experience in NGS assay development, preferably in a cutting-edge research/R&D environment
• Deep expertise in NGS technologies, including library prep, sequencing platforms, and workflow optimization; experience with single-cell RNA-seq or related single-cell technologies (scWGS, scATAC-seq, scMultiomics) is a strong plus
• Hands-on experience optimizing NGS library preparation for low-input samples
• Experience evaluating sequencing run and library QC metrics and troubleshooting NGS workflow performance
• Strong experimental design, troubleshooting, and data interpretation skills
• Demonstrated success working in cross-functional, fast-moving research or startup environments and collaborating with computational scientists
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to handle several fast-paced projects concurrently
• Demonstrated curiosity and scientific rigor with excellent problem-solving skills

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with NGS applications in hematologic malignancies
• Experience developing and validating NGS assays under CLIA/CAP or other regulated quality systems
• Familiarity with computational methods and software for analysis of NGS data, especially for quality control
• Prior experience bringing assays from early research through to product development
• Experience with automation of NGS library preparation and related sample processing
• Background in cancer genomics, hematologic malignancies, or immune-oncology

Location

This position is located in Somerville MA, just steps away from the Union Square T Stop

Why Join Predicta Biosciences?  

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a mission-driven team advancing precision diagnostics for hematologic cancers. You’ll play a key role in shaping the quality and performance of our clinical testing efforts and contribute directly to patient-impactful innovations. 

The annual salary range for this position is $95,000–$125,000, with a 10% bonus opportunity. Base compensation is determined by factors such as experience, skills, education, qualifications, and geographic location. Actual compensation may vary, and new hires are typically not placed at or near the top of the range. Additional benefits include paid parking or T-pass stipend, stock options, flexible time off, a 401(k) plan, medical, dental, and vision coverage that is 90% paid by Predicta, and a partially company-funded HSA.