Staff Bioinformatics Scientist – Oncology/MRD Algorithm Development

Illumina

. Drive development of algorithms for detecting minimal residual disease in ctDNA samples using signals from small variant calling, copy number calling, fragmentomics, and methylation .

Posted 9/24/2026full-timeRemote • California • United StatesLead💰 $155,600 - $233,400 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Expertise in developing and improving bioinformatics algorithms for NGS analysis in clinical oncology, with strong proficiency in statistics and programming languages such as Python. Ability to communicate effectively across cross-functional teams and provide technical guidance to collaborators.

Highest-signal resume keywords

PhD In BioinformaticsNGS Algorithm DevelopmentFluency In StatisticsProgramming In PythonExperience In Oncology

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Bioinformatics MethodsNGS AnalysisAlgorithm DevelopmentVariant DetectionMethylation AnalysisCopy Number CallingFragmentomicsStatistical AnalysisC++ Programming

Soft Skills

Good Communication SkillsCollaboration

Industry Keywords

Minimal Residual DiseaseClinical OncologyTherapy SelectionCross-Functional TeamsExperimental Design

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

PythonC++

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Drive development of algorithms for detecting minimal residual disease in ctDNA samples using signals from small variant calling, copy number calling, fragmentomics, and methylation
Assist in improving algorithms for therapy selection across a range of variant types and biomarkers
Prototype novel NGS algorithms for clinical oncology use cases such as MRD
Assess and improve existing secondary analysis algorithms for variant and biomarker detection
Design and analyze experiments with external and internal experimental teams to support existing or new Illumina oncology assays
Provide technical guidance to internal and external collaborators
Participate in cross-functional assay and algorithm R&D teams with minimal oversight
Communicate plans and results across functions

Requirements

What you’ll need

PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, statistics, math, or related field with 3+ years industry experience
Fluency in at least two of statistics, common bioinformatics methods, NGS analysis, and oncology
Proven track record developing bioinformatics NGS algorithms beyond leveraging existing tools
Fluency in programming languages such as Python
Experience with C++ is desired
Good communication skills to contribute to cross-functional project teams and work with stakeholders
Ability to accommodate meeting times overlapping with Pacific time zone hours
Successful completion of a background check may be required following a conditional offer

Benefits

Comp & perks

Variable cash program (bonus or commission)
Equity for eligible roles
Access to genomics sequencing
Family planning benefits
Health, dental, and vision benefits
Retirement benefits
Paid time off
Employee Resource Groups offering career development experiences, cultural awareness, and social responsibility opportunities