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Human Genetic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Genetic Counselor 2

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$51.47 - $67.87/hr

Thorough knowledge of theories and principles of human genetics, including knowledge of cell cycle, meiosis and mitosis; knowledge of chromosomal aberrations and associated clinical features ...

Masters degree in Human Genetics or Genetic Counseling * American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) certification or Active Candidate Status for ABGC * Multi State Genetic Counselor licensure or ...

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Human Genetic information

What is a human geneticist?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a human geneticist?

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 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.

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.

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 the careers in human genetics?

Careers in human genetics include roles such as genetic counselor, research scientist, clinical geneticist, laboratory technician, and bioinformatician. These positions often require knowledge of genetics, molecular biology, and the use of specialized tools like DNA sequencing technologies, with many roles requiring advanced degrees and certification. Human genetics professionals work in healthcare, research institutions, and biotech companies to study and apply genetic information to improve health outcomes.

What cities in California are hiring for Human Genetic jobs?

Cities in California with the most Human Genetic job openings:

Infographic showing various Human Genetic job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Computational Genomics Senior Research Scientist

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (US)

San Diego, CA • On-site

$130 - $195/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Vertex Pharmaceuticals rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Job Description

We are seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Computational Genomics to join Vertex's Data and Computational Sciences organization at our San Diego research site. In this role, you will work at the intersection of human genetics, genomics, and modern computational approaches, including emerging AI technologies, to accelerate the development of transformative therapies for serious human diseases. Working closely with cross-functional disease project teams, you will help shape the development of novel therapies in areas including lung diseases and pain by designing human genetic and genomics studies and translating complex datasets into insights that inform program strategy, target evaluation, biomarker development, and mechanistic understanding. You will take ownership of analyses from biological question to actionable recommendation and help guide the application of genomics and human genetics across discovery programs. Success in this role will require scientific independence, sound judgment, and effective collaboration across disease biology, experimental genomics, translational research, computational sciences, and project leadership. This position is based in San Diego, CA and is eligible for on‑site or hybrid work, with an expectation of at least three days per week on‑site.

Key Responsibilities
  • Partner closely with cross-functional project teams to identify critical scientific questions that can be addressed through human genetics, genomics, sequencing, and computational analyses.
  • Design, execute, and interpret human genetic, genomic, and multi-omic studies that advance target discovery, target validation, biomarker development, and mechanistic understanding.
  • Apply and develop computational and statistical approaches to analyze complex biological datasets, integrating internal data with publicly available resources to generate actionable insights.
  • Take ownership of analyses from biological question through recommendation, clearly communicating conclusions, limitations, and proposed next steps to diverse scientific audiences.
  • Help shape genomics strategies across discovery programs, ensuring that study design, analysis plans, and interpretation are scientifically rigorous and aligned with project objectives.
  • Collaborate with computational and experimental scientists to identify opportunities where emerging computational approaches, including machine learning and AI technologies, can accelerate biological discovery and enhance the analysis and interpretation of genomic and human genetic data.
  • Contribute to scientific publications, internal reports, regulatory submissions, and other communications that support research and development activities.
Knowledge and Skills
  • Deep understanding of human genetics, genomics, and their application to disease biology, target discovery, and therapeutic development.
  • Strong scientific judgment and the ability to translate complex datasets into clear conclusions, recommendations, and next steps.
  • Ability to independently drive scientific questions from study design through interpretation and influence project decision-making.
  • Excellent communication skills, including the ability to convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Interest in evaluating and applying emerging computational approaches, including machine learning and AI technologies, where they can meaningfully advance biological discovery.
  • A team-oriented growth mindset that welcomes feedback from others and supports other team members; a positive attitude that enthusiastically tackles and overcomes challenges.
Minimum Qualifications

PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, genomics, human genetics, systems biology, bioengineering, or a related field, with 3+ years of relevant post-doctoral or industry experience; or Master's degree in a related field with 8+ years of relevant industry experience.

Demonstrated excellence in the analysis, visualization, and interpretation of human genetics, genomic, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) data.

Experience applying computational methods and bioinformatics tools to large-scale biological datasets.

Proficiency in programming (R, Python), Unix/Linux environments, and high-performance computing systems.

Solid foundation in statistics and genetics, including the role of human genetic variation in disease biology.

#LI-KM1 #LI-Hybrid

Pay Range

$129,900 - $194,900

Disclosure Statement: The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation: Hybrid-Eligible Or On-Site EligibleFlex Eligibility Status

In this Hybrid-Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as:

  • Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week;
  • On‑Site: work five days per week on‑site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

#LI-Hybrid

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation. Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com.

Help Us Achieve Our Mission Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases. The company has approved medicines that treat the underlying causes of multiple chronic, life-shortening genetic diseases — cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia — and continues to advance clinical and research programs in these diseases. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology, including APOL1-mediated kidney disease, acute and neuropathic pain, type 1 diabetes, myotonic dystrophy type 1 and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

Founded in 1989 in Cambridge, Mass., Vertex's global headquarters is now located in Boston's Innovation District and its international headquarters is in London. Additionally, the company has research and development sites and commercial offices in North America, Europe, Australia, Latin America and the Middle East. Vertex is consistently recognized as one of the industry's top places to work, including 14 consecutive years on Science magazine's Top Employers list and one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For.

For company updates and to learn more about Vertex's history of innovation, visit www.vrtx.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter/X , LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram. The diversity and authenticity of our people is part of what makes Vertex unique, and we recognize that each employee brings diverse perspectives and strengths. By embracing those strengths and celebrating differences, we are fostering an inclusive culture where each of us can bring our authentic selves to work, inspire innovation together, and change people’s lives. Our vision is clear: to be the place where an authentic, diverse mix of talent want to come, to stay, and do their best work.

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