Assay Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Scientist 2, Neuroscience Discovery & iPSC Assay Development to advance discovery research and drug development efforts within our Neuroscience team. In this role, you will leverage human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to generate relevant central nervous system (CNS) cell models, execute functional assays, and support disease-relevant phenotyping. You will thrive in a fast-paced, matrix environment, bringing strong scientific rigor, a proactive problem-solving mindset, and a commitment to data quality and reproducibility.

• Perform culture, banking, and quality control of human iPSCs, and differentiate iPSCs into CNS cell lineages (neurons, glia) following established protocols.
• Manage and maintain routine primary neuronal cultures to support comparative and complementary functional studies.
• Design, optimize, and execute robust cell-based assays supporting neuroscience pipeline programs, implementing new technology platforms when needed.
• Support genetic and pharmacological proof-of-concept studies through precise execution of experimental workflows.
• Generate, analyze, and document complex experimental data with a focus on high reproducibility, maintaining accurate Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) records.
• Present scientific findings and actionable insights to multidisciplinary project teams via reports, presentations, and team discussions.
• Oversee iPSC lab operations, ensuring efficient shared reagent management, equipment maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols.

You are a curious, detail-oriented researcher who thrives in a collaborative scientific environment and is passionate about leveraging advanced cell models to transform neuroscience discovery.

• Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or a related field with 6+ years of laboratory experience, OR a Master’s degree with 4+ years of experience in iPSC and mammalian cell culture (industry or academia).
• Demonstrated technical proficiency in human iPSC maintenance, banking, quality control, and directed differentiation into CNS cell types (neurons, microglia, astrocytes, or oligodendrocytes).
• Hands‑on expertise in molecular biology, advanced optical imaging, biochemistry, molecular profiling, and executing plate-based or high-content imaging assays.
• Strong skills in independent experimental design, organization, critical thinking, and written/verbal communication.
• Preferred: Familiarity or hands‑on experience with CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, arrayed/pooled CRISPR screens, or single‑cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‑seq) workflows.

• Hands‑on experience with CRISPR/Cas9 editing in iPSCs (guide design, RNP/lentiviral/transfection delivery, clone isolation, and genomic validation).
• Experience with arrayed or pooled CRISPR screens (library preparation, transduction, NGS sample prep).
• Familiarity with single‑cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‑seq) workflows and data interpretation using R and/or Python.

Relocation benefits are available for this job posting.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of South San Francisco, CA is $85,500 to $158,700. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job‑related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

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