Research Scientist 2, Genetics & Solid Tumors Laboratory

Job Description

Who we’re looking for:

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Research Scientist 2 with the Genetics & Solid Tumors Division at the University of Washington Medical Center – Montlake.

The Genetics Division is a leader in precision diagnostics, offering DNA-based testing for a diverse array of disorders. As a nationally recognized center, we excel in molecular oncology, rare disease diagnosis, prenatal genetics, and cutting-edge genetic testing methods. Our efforts are dedicated to advancing DNA sequencing technologies, which are crucial for identifying disease-predisposing mutations, including those related to cancer, and for deepening our understanding of cancer biology.

Our division is currently integrating with several other UW diagnostic labs while increasing automation, and, within the next few years, will be moving to a centralized lab in Renton. The Research Scientist 2 will support research projects within our team.

Work schedule:

• 100% FTE

• Monday – Friday

• Day shift

What you’ll contribute:

Lab Operations & Automation (60%)

• Develop, adapt, and maintain automated workflows for NGS sample prep and related molecular biology processes.

• Manage sample intake and specimen accessioning of multiple clinical research projects.

• Perform DNA isolation, NGS library prep, and sequencing using automated and manual methods as needed.

• Operate laboratory instrumentation, perform routine maintenance, and coordinate vendor-supported repairs.

• Integrate QC procedures at key stages of the workflow and troubleshoot technical issues to ensure consistent, high-quality results.

Project Management (20%)

• Communicate status updates, performance metrics, and results to project leadership and collaborators.

• Maintain organized, compliant lab records for numerous clinical and research projects.

• Serve as a technical contact for ongoing studies to align workflows with projects goals and timelines.

Collaboration & Training (20%)

• Collaborate with groups of technical staff to ensure automated workflows integrate seamlessly into production.

• Train and mentor laboratory staff in automation protocols, troubleshooting, and best practices.

• Participate in cross-functional meetings, contribute feedback, and support continuous process initiatives.

What you’ll need:

• Bachelor’s degree in genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or other life sciences fields AND

• Two years of genetics or molecular biology laboratory experience.

• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Additional Requirements.

• Hands-on experience with automated liquid handling platforms (Hamilton, Tecan, or similar)

• NGS library preparation experience (eg Illumina platforms), ideally in a high-throughput or clinical environment

Desired qualifications:

• Comprehensive understanding of molecular biology concepts and methods.

• Excellent written communication and documentation skills.

• Experience in a high throughput laboratory environment.

• Experience automating biological sample prep.

• Knowledge in programming languages.

• Understanding of the principles of cancer genetics and clinical molecular diagnostics.

What we offer:

• Vacation time and sick time off that accrues monthly, including 12 paid holidays.

• State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.

• Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.

• Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.

• Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.

• And much more!

About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:

A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.

Please visit our website to learn more about our department.

About the UW:

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building