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Genomic Variant Scientist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Genomic Variant Scientist information

See Michigan salary details

$31.8K

$69.2K

$119.8K

How much do genomic variant scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for genomic variant scientist in Michigan is $69,211.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,100.00 and $81,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a genomic variant scientist do?

A Genomic Variant Scientist specializes in identifying, analyzing, and interpreting genetic variations within DNA sequences. They use advanced bioinformatics tools and laboratory techniques to detect changes in genes that may be linked to diseases, traits, or drug responses. Their work is crucial in fields like personalized medicine, genetic research, and clinical diagnostics, helping to translate genomic data into actionable insights for patient care or scientific discovery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a genomic variant scientist?

To thrive as a Genomic Variant Scientist, a deep understanding of genetics, genomics, and molecular biology is essential, usually supported by an advanced degree in a life science field. Familiarity with next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, variant annotation tools, and bioinformatics software such as GATK and VEP is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in interpreting complex data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate variant interpretation, enabling meaningful clinical or research insights that drive advances in precision medicine.

What are the common challenges faced by genomic variant scientists when interpreting complex genetic data, and how are these addressed in a typical work environment?

Genomic Variant Scientists often encounter challenges such as distinguishing pathogenic variants from benign ones, managing large datasets, and keeping up with the rapidly evolving scientific literature. In most work environments, these challenges are addressed through collaborative teamwork with bioinformaticians, clinical geneticists, and laboratory technicians. Access to advanced computational tools, regular case discussions, and ongoing professional development opportunities help scientists stay updated and improve the accuracy of variant interpretation. This collaborative and resource-rich environment enables Genomic Variant Scientists to tackle complex cases and contribute effectively to patient care or research outcomes.

What is the difference between Genomic Variant Scientist vs Genetic Data Analyst?

AspectGenomic Variant ScientistGenetic Data Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Genetics, Genomics, or related field; experience with genomic dataBachelor's or Master's in Genetics, Bioinformatics, or related field; proficiency in data analysis tools
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, academic institutionsHealthcare settings, research institutions, biotech firms
Industry UsageGenomics research, variant interpretation, experimental analysisData interpretation, report generation, clinical data analysis

While both roles involve working with genetic data, Genomic Variant Scientists focus on identifying and interpreting genetic variants through laboratory and computational methods. Genetic Data Analysts primarily analyze and interpret genetic data sets to support research or clinical decisions. The roles often overlap in skills and environment but differ in their core responsibilities and focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Genomic Variant Scientist jobs in Michigan?

For Genomic Variant Scientist jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Genomic Variant Scientist jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Genomic Variant Scientist job openings:

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 429 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Office

Job Description

As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world’s toughest challenges, like protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or helping find cures for cancer.
Discover Impactful Work
The Variant Scientist III will review, analyze, and compile complex clinical data from primary literature and clinical trials specific to biomarkers in cancer. You’ll provide scientific and technical expertise to a cross-functional team of scientists and software developers to build and maintain an internal knowledgebase of genomic aberrations and therapies relevant to cancer.  This role is part of the Bioinformatics team within the Clinical Next Generation Sequencing Division. The mission of this business unit is to develop next-generation sequencing-based solutions to support oncology research and other important unmet medical needs.
 

Location

This is a fully onsite role based in Ann Arbor, MI and relocation assistance is not provided. 

A Day in the Life

  • Read, interpret, and curate evidence from approved therapies, clinical guidelines, clinical trials, and scientific literature using customized software tools.
  • Actively participate in the interpretation, analysis, and summarization of various clinical sources for somatic and germline variant annotations and classification.
  • Review primary literature and author summaries that describe the relationships between gene variants and disease prognosis, diagnosis, and therapy selection.
  • Actively provide translational and clinical oncology expertise to the curation team in solid and/or hematological cancers.
  • Follow and maintain sustainable processes that ensure data accuracy and quality.
  • Work in a fast pace, cross-functional team of bioinformatics scientists, variant scientists, and software engineers to define and refine clinical reports.

Keys to Success

Education

  • PhD in cancer biology, cancer genomics, or molecular biology with expertise in solid or heme cancers. Post-doctoral experience preferred but not required.

Experience

  • Demonstrated understanding of cancer genomics, tumor biology, oncogenic signaling pathways.
  • Experience in reviewing and summarizing scientific literature for somatic and germline variants.
  • Experience with cancer mutation databases and disease ontologies.
  • Industry or clinical laboratory experience working in genomic variant curation and clinical interpretation is preferred.
  • Experience with IVD/regulated product development or genetic counseling is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills with ability to multi-task
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Positive attitude with strong interpersonal skills.

Other

  • Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check and drug screen.

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