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Variant Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

$88K - $132K/yr

The Variant Scientist evaluates functional, computational, and clinical data to assess variant pathogenicity, and summarizes pertinent data for patient reports. The Variant Scientist develops and ...

Washington University of St. Louis

$77K - $120K/yr

Focus of the position is on all aspects of genetic variant analysis, curation, and interpretation ... Scientific Literature, Stress Management, Team Collaboration, Working Independently Grade C14 ...

LatchBio

AI Biologist - Variant

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$120K - $180K/yr

Bioinformatics Engineer - Variant As molecular data generation and frontier model intelligence ... scientists across 150+ R&D labs to handle data from instrument-to-insights. We're seeking a ...

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How much do variant scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for variant scientist in the United States is $47.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.13 and $59.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a variant scientist?

Variant Scientists are professionals who analyze genetic variants—differences in DNA sequences—to determine their significance in health and disease. They interpret genomic data, often from whole-genome or exome sequencing, to assess whether specific variants may cause or contribute to medical conditions. Their work is crucial in clinical genetics, precision medicine, and biomedical research, helping guide patient diagnosis and treatment. Variant Scientists collaborate with clinicians, bioinformaticians, and laboratory personnel to provide accurate and actionable genetic insights.

What does a variant scientist do?

As a variant scientist, you work for a research laboratory in a university or a medical facility to test and study variations of genes and the effects they have on human development. As part of your duties, you aid in the development of new tests to discover gene abnormalities, perform analysis on patient samples to identify possible mutations, and record your findings to assist in scientific research. You also have heavy reporting responsibilities that may require in-depth computer and writing skills, the ability to analyze data, and strong attention to detail. In this role, you may cater to a specific health field, like pediatrics or oncology.

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

To thrive as a Variant Scientist, you need a solid background in genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a PhD or MSc in a related field. Familiarity with next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, variant annotation tools, and data analysis software like GATK or ANNOVAR is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret complex genetic data and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate variant interpretation, drive discoveries, and support precision medicine initiatives.

What are some common challenges faced by variant scientists in interpreting genetic data, and how are these typically addressed within a team?

Variant Scientists often encounter challenges such as distinguishing between benign and pathogenic variants, managing large volumes of sequencing data, and staying updated with rapidly evolving genetic databases. These challenges are typically addressed by collaborating closely with bioinformaticians, clinical geneticists, and laboratory personnel to review findings and validate interpretations. Regular team meetings, use of standardized classification guidelines like ACMG, and leveraging advanced software tools help ensure accurate and consistent variant analysis.
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Variant Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Variant Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,868 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Clinical Variant Scientist - DLMP

Rochester, MN • On-site

Mayo Clinic
Hospitals • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Mayo Clinicexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 707 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Variant Scientist functions in the clinical lab interpretive team, evaluating genomic test results to determine the pathogenicity and clinical significance of germline and somatic variants. The Variant Scientist evaluates functional, computational, and clinical data to assess variant pathogenicity, and summarizes pertinent data for patient reports. The Variant Scientist develops and maintains gene-level curation resources to support clinical test interpretation. The Variant Scientist participates as appropriate in gene/variant curation-focused publications, database submissions, professional collaborations, and presentations at professional meetings. The Variant Scientist plays an active role in education and training of laboratory fellows and residents, graduate students, lab staff, and other students and trainees. The Variant Scientist contributes to ongoing process improvement in interpretive workflows and participates in new test development and implementation.

At minimum, the variant scientist demonstrates proficiency applying ACMG/AMP variant classification guidelines for interpretation of SNVs and CNVs, and may include other variant classes such as mitochondrial variants, repeat expansions, and complex genomic findings. Variant scientists may also perform comprehensive technical evaluation of NGS data, including review of read-level evidence, coverage metrics, allele balance, structural variants, copy number variants, and other complex genomic findings using IGV and related visualization tools.

*Individuals hired to this position are required to complete 2 years in this position before becoming eligible to transfer to other positions within Mayo Clinic

"During the selection process you may participate in an OnDemand (pre-recorded) interview that you can complete at your convenience. During the OnDemand interview, a question will appear on your screen, and you will have time to consider each question before responding. You will have the opportunity to re-record your answer to each question - Mayo Clinic will only see the final recording. The complete interview will be reviewed by a Mayo Clinic staff member, and you will be notified of next steps."
 

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law".  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

MS, PhD, or equivalent in genetics, genetic counseling, molecular biology, or related field. Strong background in molecular genetics, human genetics, molecular pathology, or related medical specialties is necessary.

Additional Qualifications

Should have a good understanding of sequencing technologies (Sanger and next generation sequencing). A familiarity with professional standards for variant classification is preferred. Experience in germline and/or somatic variant curation using in silico analysis tools, variant databases, and primary literature evaluation is strongly desired. Must have a demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, team-based environment. The candidate must also display excellent oral and written communication skills, superior problem-solving and organizational skills, and strong attention to detail. Must have computer skills appropriate for laboratory practice. Skills in statistical analysis, bioinformatics, or complex data integration preferred. Appropriate licensure or other certification pertinent to the laboratory field may be required depending on the laboratory specialty.

Proficiency with interpretation and application of ACMG/AMP variant classification guidelines is necessary for this position. At least two years of experience in a Clinical Genomics Laboratory is preferred.


ALL MUST be included for your application to be considered:
   CV/Resume
   Cover Letter
   Transcripts (unofficial copy accepted)
   Internal candidates must provide their past performance appraisal

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About Mayo Clinic

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Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919

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