1

Human Genetic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You will drive the translation of human genetic insights into actionable biological hypotheses to enable target discovery and validation across disease areas. The successful candidate will lead a ...

Comprehensive knowledge of human genetic disorders and defects * Excellent communication skills to distill complex information, results and diagnoses * Professionalism and emotional stability to ...

Human Genetics Data Scientist

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$114K - $211K/yr

CRAM/BAM, VCF, PLINK) common to human genetic and bioinformatic analysis * Proficiency working with Unix/Linux-based systems and tools * Proficiency in Python, R, Bash, and/or other relevant ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Human Genetic information

See salary details

$26.5K

$44.2K

$60K

How much do human genetic jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for human genetic in the United States is $44,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $48,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers are there in genetics?

Careers in genetics include roles such as genetic counselor, research scientist, clinical geneticist, molecular biologist, and bioinformatician. These positions often require knowledge of DNA analysis, laboratory skills, and relevant certifications or advanced degrees in genetics, biology, or related fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Human Geneticist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Human Geneticist, you need a solid background in genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry, typically supported by an advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in genetics or a related field. Expertise with laboratory techniques (such as PCR and DNA sequencing), bioinformatics tools, and data analysis software is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in interpreting genetic data and conveying findings to colleagues or patients. These competencies are crucial for advancing research, ensuring accurate diagnoses, and supporting informed decision-making in clinical or research settings.

What is the difference between Human Genetic vs Genetic Counselor?

AspectHuman GeneticGenetic Counselor
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in genetics or related field, often with research experienceMaster's degree in genetic counseling, certification required
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, healthcare settingsClinics, hospitals, private practices
Industry UsageResearch, diagnostics, academiaPatient counseling, risk assessment

Human Geneticists focus on research and understanding genetic mechanisms, while Genetic Counselors work directly with patients to interpret genetic information and assess risks. Both roles require advanced degrees, but their work environments and primary functions differ significantly.

What are human geneticists and what do they do?

Human geneticists are scientists who study genes, heredity, and genetic variation in humans. They analyze DNA, chromosomes, and genetic data to understand how traits and diseases are inherited. Their work can lead to breakthroughs in diagnosing genetic disorders, developing treatments, and providing genetic counseling to individuals or families. Human geneticists often work in research, healthcare, or biotechnology settings.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

Human geneticists, especially those in senior research, clinical, or industry roles, often earn over $100,000 annually. Positions in biotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, or academic institutions with advanced degrees and specialized skills in genomics, bioinformatics, or laboratory management tend to have higher salaries. Experience, certifications, and geographic location can also influence earning potential.

What is the highest paying job in genetics?

In genetics, roles such as genetic counselors, clinical geneticists, and research directors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually. Senior positions in biotech companies or pharmaceutical firms, especially those involving leadership, research, or specialized skills like bioinformatics, also offer high compensation.

How to become a human geneticist?

To become a human geneticist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in genetics, biology, or a related field, followed by a master's or Ph.D. in genetics or molecular biology. Gaining laboratory skills, experience with genetic analysis tools, and staying current with research are essential for this career.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in human genetics, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in human genetics often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving scientific discoveries, handling large and complex genomic datasets, and communicating complex results to non-specialists. Managing these challenges typically involves ongoing professional development, collaborating closely with bioinformaticians and clinicians, and refining communication skills to effectively translate genetic findings into actionable insights for patients or research teams. Many organizations support their genetics teams with access to cutting-edge technology, regular training, and interdisciplinary collaboration, which can help professionals thrive in this dynamic field.
More about Human Genetic jobs
What cities are hiring for Human Genetic jobs? Cities with the most Human Genetic job openings:
What states have the most Human Genetic jobs? States with the most job openings for Human Genetic jobs include:
Infographic showing various Human Genetic job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,245 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Human Genetics Laboratory Leader

Novartis Group Companies

Cambridge, MA โ€ข On-site

$152K - $283K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Description Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced scientist to lead a Human Genetics laboratory. You will drive the translation of human genetic insights into actionable biological hypotheses to enable target discovery and validation across disease areas. The successful candidate will lead a small team of biologists and shape the genotype-to-phenotype translation strategy, integrating rare variant genetics, functional biology, and advanced analytical approaches to inform target prioritization.
This position is part of the Human Genetics & Targets group within the Discovery Sciences (DSc) department in Biomedical Research at Novartis. The Human Genetics & Targets team is a global group of computational and experimental scientists dedicated to validating or invalidating genetics-driven target hypotheses. The team's extensive expertise in genetics analytics, biology, and translatable models is enhanced by DSc's capabilities in AI, functional genomics, chemical biology, and more. The team collaborates with disease area specialists to not only identify disease associations but fully understand the underlying disease mechanisms and advance drug discovery projects to benefit patients in need.


Job Description

Internal Job Title: Senior Principal Scientist or Associate Director

Position Location: Cambridge, MA, onsite #LI-onsite

Key responsibilities:

  • Lead and develop a high-performing team of 2-3 wet lab scientists, establishing state-of-the-art experimental capabilities to functionally characterize human genetic variation

  • Manage resources, priorities, and execution across multiple projects, ensuring high-quality data generation, interpretation, and delivery aligned with strategic goals

  • Apply genetics expertise to enable recall-by-genotype strategies, including participant identification from biobank resources and design of deep phenotyping protocols

  • Serve as senior scientific leader to evolve the genotype-to-phenotype research strategy, translating rare variants into biological hypotheses and target investment decisions

  • Represent genetics expertise in cross-functional teams and governance boards, contributing to portfolio prioritization alongside computational biology and disease area experts

  • Build and maintain strong internal and external partnerships, communicating scientific insights effectively to diverse audiences

Essential Requirements:

  • PhD with 8+ years of post-graduate experience in genetics, with a focus on rare variants and/or genotype-to-phenotype translation

  • Strong background in experimental biology, including cellular models and gene perturbation technologies relevant to variant characterization

  • Extensive experience connecting clinical and/or biobank genetic data to biological mechanisms and therapeutic hypotheses across disease indications

  • Proven people leadership skills, including mentoring and developing scientists, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams in a matrix environment

  • Curiosity for emerging technologies and methods, including AI-based approaches for variant interpretation and prioritization

  • Exceptional collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills, with a strong track record of scientific innovation

Desirable Requirements:

  • Hands-on experience in designing and executing recall-by-genotype studies

  • Target and/or drug discovery experience in an industry setting

The salary for this position is expected to range between $138,600 and $257,400 USD annually for Senior Principal Scientist, and $152,600 and $283,400 USD annually for Associate Director. The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills andexperience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the publishedsalary range based on company and market factors.


Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of therole, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.


US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life anddisability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. Inaddition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days,holidays and other leaves.


To learn more about the culture, rewards and benefits we offer our people click here.


EEO Statement:

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.


Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to us.reasonableaccommodations@novartis.com or call +1(877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.


Salary Range

$138,600.00 - $257,400.00


Skills Desired

Analytical Thinking, Chemical Biology, Chemistry, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Collaboration, Curious Mindset, Data Analysis, Decision Making, Detail-Oriented, Drug Development, Ethics, Machine Learning (ML), Medical Research, Mentorship, Patient Care, Science, Stakeholder Engagement, Stakeholder Management