Senior Scientist Molecular Diagnostics – San Diego, CA

Are you a dedicated molecular diagnostics expert passionate about advancing precision medicine? We are seeking a Senior Scientist to join our cutting-edge team in San Diego, CA. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead research and development efforts that transform diagnostic technologies, improve patient outcomes, and drive scientific breakthroughs in a rapidly evolving field.

Drive Scientific Innovation in Molecular Diagnostics

Join a pioneering life sciences company in San Diego, CA, focused on developing next-generation molecular diagnostic solutions. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular biology techniques, assay development, and clinical validation. If you excel at translating scientific insights into impactful diagnostic products and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, this role offers you the platform to shape the future of molecular diagnostics.

Key Responsibilities of the Senior Scientist – Molecular Diagnostics

Research & Assay Development: Lead the design, development, and optimization of molecular diagnostic assays, including PCR, NGS, and other advanced molecular biology techniques. Drive innovation in assay sensitivity, specificity, and robustness to meet clinical and regulatory standards.

Experimental Planning & Execution: Design and conduct experiments to validate molecular diagnostic tests. Analyze data rigorously, troubleshoot technical challenges, and refine protocols to ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Collaboration & Cross-Functional Leadership: Work closely with R&D, clinical, regulatory, and manufacturing teams to translate scientific discoveries into scalable diagnostic solutions. Facilitate effective communication and collaboration across departments to accelerate product development timelines.

Regulatory Compliance & Documentation: Prepare and maintain comprehensive technical documentation to support regulatory submissions, quality assurance, and clinical validation. Ensure adherence to all relevant regulatory guidelines and quality standards (e.g., CLIA, FDA, ISO).

Data Analysis & Interpretation: Utilize bioinformatics tools and statistical methods to analyze molecular data, interpret results, and provide actionable insights that drive decision-making.

Continuous Innovation & Improvement: Stay current with emerging molecular diagnostic technologies, scientific literature, and industry trends. Propose and implement novel approaches to enhance assay performance and expand the diagnostic portfolio.

Mentorship & Team Development: Provide guidance, training, and mentorship to junior scientists and laboratory staff. Foster a culture of scientific rigor, innovation, and continuous learning within the team.

Project Management: Manage multiple concurrent projects, prioritize tasks effectively, and deliver high-quality results within deadlines. Collaborate with project leads to align scientific activities with business goals.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Senior Scientist in Molecular Diagnostics, the client is seeking a highly skilled and innovative scientist with a strong track record of advancing molecular diagnostic technologies. You should be a proactive problem solver who thrives in a collaborative environment and is passionate about driving scientific excellence to improve patient care.

Expertise in Molecular Diagnostics and Assay Development

The client values candidates with deep expertise in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, NGS, and related assay development. You should have demonstrated success in designing and validating diagnostic assays that meet rigorous clinical and regulatory standards. Experience with clinical sample handling, validation studies, and quality control is essential.

Innovative Scientific Thinker with a Collaborative Mindset

You must be able to think strategically and creatively to solve complex scientific problems. The ideal candidate thrives in cross-functional teams, working closely with R&D, clinical, regulatory, and manufacturing groups to translate research findings into practical diagnostic tools. Strong communication skills and teamwork are highly prized.

Strong Analytical and Data Interpretation Skills

A key requirement is your ability to analyze complex molecular data, use bioinformatics tools, and interpret results accurately to guide project decisions. You should be detail-oriented with a commitment to data integrity and scientific rigor.

Commitment to Regulatory Compliance and Quality Standards

The client expects a scientist who understands and adheres to regulatory requirements, including CLIA, FDA, and ISO guidelines. You should be experienced in preparing documentation for regulatory submissions and ensuring that assays comply with quality and safety standards.

Continuous Learner and Industry Awareness

Staying current with the latest scientific advancements and molecular diagnostic technologies is crucial. You should demonstrate a passion for learning and the ability to incorporate new knowledge and innovations into your work.

Leadership and Mentorship Abilities

While primarily a hands-on scientific role, the client appreciates candidates who can mentor junior team members, foster a collaborative lab culture, and contribute to the professional development of colleagues.

FAQs About the Role – Senior Scientist Molecular Diagnostics

1. What are the key responsibilities of the Senior Scientist in this role?

As a Senior Scientist in Molecular Diagnostics, you will lead the development and validation of molecular assays, design experiments, analyze data, and collaborate across R&D, clinical, regulatory, and manufacturing teams. You will also ensure compliance with regulatory standards and contribute to scientific innovation that advances diagnostic solutions.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate will have an advanced degree (MS or PhD) in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or a related field, with significant hands-on experience in molecular diagnostics assay development and validation. Experience with PCR, NGS, and clinical sample handling is essential. Knowledge of regulatory requirements such as FDA and CLIA is highly preferred.

3. What technical skills are essential for this role?

Strong expertise in molecular biology techniques including PCR, qPCR, NGS, and assay design is required. You should be proficient in data analysis, bioinformatics tools, and statistical interpretation. Experience in preparing regulatory documentation and maintaining quality standards is also important.

4. What kind of work environment can I expect?

You will join a collaborative, fast-paced team driven by innovation and scientific excellence. The environment encourages cross-functional communication, continuous learning, and contributions to cutting-edge diagnostic product development.

5. What are the biggest challenges I might face in this position?

Challenges include keeping pace with rapidly evolving molecular technologies, ensuring assay robustness across diverse clinical samples, meeting stringent regulatory requirements, and translating research findings into scalable diagnostic products within tight timelines.

6. How does this role impact the company’s mission?

Your work directly contributes to developing diagnostic tests that improve patient outcomes and advance precision medicine. The role is pivotal in driving innovation that strengthens the company’s position as a leader in molecular diagnostics.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As a Senior Scientist in Molecular Diagnostics based in San Diego, CA, you can anticipate a competitive compensation package designed to attract highly qualified scientific professionals. The remuneration for this role typically includes the following components:

1. Base Salary

The base salary for a Senior Scientist in Molecular Diagnostics generally varies depending on experience, education, and the size and funding status of the company. For mid- to senior-level scientists in this region, annual base salaries typically range from $90,000 to $140,000. Highly experienced candidates or those at larger organizations may command salaries above this range.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

Many companies offer annual performance bonuses tied to individual and company achievements. These bonuses are typically linked to successful project milestones, assay development progress, or overall company financial performance. Performance bonuses can range from 5% to 20% of the base salary.

3. Equity & Stock Options

Especially in biotech and diagnostics companies, equity incentives such as stock options or restricted stock units (RSUs) are common. These align your interests with company growth and can offer significant long-term financial benefits depending on company valuation and growth trajectory.

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)

Some organizations provide LTIPs designed to reward sustained scientific and business achievements over multiple years. These incentives promote retention and alignment with long-term company goals, potentially increasing your total earnings through bonuses or additional equity grants.

5. Benefits & Perks

Senior Scientists often receive a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings plans such as 401(k) with employer matching
Paid time off and holidays
Professional development allowances (conferences, certifications)
Flexible working arrangements or remote work options
Wellness programs and employee assistance plans

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

For highly qualified candidates, especially those relocating to the San Diego area, companies may offer signing bonuses or relocation support. These one-time benefits can vary widely but typically range from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the organization and candidate profile.

Total Compensation Potential

When considering base salary, bonuses, equity, and benefits, total compensation for a Senior Scientist in Molecular Diagnostics in San Diego can typically range from $100,000 to $180,000 annually. Exceptional candidates at high-growth or publicly traded biotech companies may earn more, particularly when equity and long-term incentives are factored in.

How to Apply

If you are an innovative and detail-oriented scientist with expertise in molecular diagnostics and a passion for advancing cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, we encourage you to apply for the Senior Scientist Molecular Diagnostics role in San Diego, CA. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful research and development in a collaborative, fast-paced biotech environment.

To apply, please submit your updated resume along with a cover letter that highlights your experience in molecular biology techniques, assay development, diagnostic product innovation, and data analysis. Be sure to emphasize your hands-on laboratory skills, experience with regulatory compliance, and ability to collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, clinical, and manufacturing teams.

This role offers a chance to drive scientific discovery and product development that can directly improve patient outcomes. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the molecular diagnostics field while advancing your scientific career.

Apply today to take the next step as a Senior Scientist Molecular Diagnostics in San Diego, CA!

For more information or to explore similar scientific roles, please visit our Molecular Diagnostics Recruiting Experts Page.

Job Category: Molecular Diagnostics

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: San Diego

Senior Scientist Molecular Diagnostics – San Diego, CA