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Senior Assay Development Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior R&D Scientist

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

... highly motivated Senior R&D Scientist who will lead assay development efforts focused on NGS ... This individual will play a key role in developing assays for the characterization of tumor and/or ...

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Senior Assay Development Scientist information

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How much do senior assay development scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior assay development scientist in the United States is $110,545.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Senior Assay Development Scientist position, and why are they important?

A Senior Assay Development Scientist should possess advanced expertise in assay design, validation, and troubleshooting, supported by a degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory automation platforms, high-throughput screening technologies, and software for data analysis such as Prism or SoftMax Pro is typically required. Strong project management, problem-solving, and cross-functional communication skills enhance effectiveness in leading projects and collaborating across departments. These skills are crucial for delivering robust, innovative assays that meet regulatory standards and support critical research or product development goals.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Senior Assay Development Scientist and how do they overcome them?

Senior Assay Development Scientists often encounter challenges such as optimizing assay sensitivity and specificity, troubleshooting inconsistent results, and meeting tight project timelines. To overcome these, they rely on deep scientific knowledge, rigorous method validation, and effective collaboration with other scientists, engineers, and quality assurance teams. Staying up to date on the latest technologies and regulatory requirements also helps address technical and compliance-related hurdles. By fostering open communication and drawing on multidisciplinary expertise within their teams, these professionals develop innovative solutions and ensure high-quality outcomes.

What does a Senior Assay Development Scientist do?

A Senior Assay Development Scientist designs, optimizes, and validates biochemical or cell-based assays for research, diagnostics, or drug development. They lead assay development projects, troubleshoot technical challenges, and collaborate with cross-functional teams. Their role often includes analyzing experimental data, ensuring assay reproducibility, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, they mentor junior scientists and contribute to scientific publications or regulatory submissions.

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Senior Research Associate- Diagnostic Assay Development

Senior Research Associate- Diagnostic Assay Development

10x Genomics

Pleasanton, CA

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

About the Role:

10x Genomics is establishing a diagnostics effort, translating our leading single cell and spatial assay technologies into impactful clinical applications. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Research Associate to join the Diagnostic Assay Development team. The SRA will be a key contributor, executing the technical development, optimization, and rigorous testing of novel Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs) in a dynamic, high-growth environment. This role, reporting to the Sr. Manager, Diagnostic Assay Development, requires extensive hands-on experience in advanced molecular biology techniques and a dedication to high-quality data generation in support of ambitious product development goals.

What you will be doing:

Assay Execution and Optimization
  • Hands-on execution of complex single-cell and spatial genomics assays (e.g., sample processing, library preparation, sequencing).
  • Systematically troubleshoot, optimize, and refine specific steps within the assay workflow to improve performance, robustness, and efficiency.
  • Perform feasibility studies on new reagents, instrumentation, and process improvements for clinical readiness.
  • Prepare and process samples in support of large-scale clinical research studies
Documentation and Analytical Studies
  • Generate and maintain meticulous laboratory records, protocols (SOPs), and batch records following Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
  • Execute formal experiments for analytical validation studies, including assessment of accuracy, precision, limit of detection, and reproducibility.
  • Ensure all work is conducted under appropriate quality controls
  • Present experimental data clearly and concisely in team meetings and written reports.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Support the transfer of robust assay workflows to the CLIA operations team.
  • Collaborate closely with R&D Scientists, Automation Engineers, and Bioinformatics teams to meet project milestones.
  • Work closely with the internal lab operations team to support the maintenance of a high-quality, organized laboratory environment, including inventory management and forecasting, equipment calibration, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Minimum Requirements:
  • B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related scientific field.
  • B.S. with 5+ years or M.S. with 3+ years of hands-on experience in molecular diagnostics or genomics assay development in an industry setting.
  • Direct, demonstrable experience with advanced molecular technologies, particularly Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows
  • Exceptional proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, and NGS library preparation
  • A proven track-record of using and optimizing and troubleshooting molecular biology protocols.
  • Experience working with challenging clinical sample types (e.g., FFPE tissue, primary tumor cells, low-input samples).
  • Experience working within a quality system or environment governed by CLIA, CAP, or ISO 13485 standards strongly preferred.
  • Prior hands-on experience with 10x Genomics single-cell or spatial technologies (e.g., Chromium or Xenium platforms) is a strong advantage.
  • Experience with automated liquid handling for high-throughput assay execution is a strong advantage; experience with microscopy techniques a plus
Preferred Skills & Experience:
  • Ability to organize, analyze, and interpret complex data sets (e.g., assay metrics, quality control data) and effectively troubleshoot issues based on results.
  • Commitment to rigorous execution, meticulous record-keeping, and high standards of scientific quality.
  • Possess excellent communication skills, and can effectively collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, integrating their feedback into your experimental design.
  • Thrive in fast-paced environments, and excel at managing multiple priorities, adapting to change, and consistently delivering results.

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