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Variant Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nationwide Children's Hospital

Accurately identifies, classifies, and documents variants following practice guidelines under the direction of the Laboratory Directors and Senior and Lead Variant Scientists. Assists with the day-to ...

Nationwide Children's Hospital

Accurately identifies, classifies, and documents variants following practice guidelines under the direction of the Laboratory Directors and Variant Scientists. Assists with the day-to-day operations ...

Quest Diagnostics

Sr. Scientist (NGS/LRS)

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$103K/yr

Come join a collaborative team of laboratory and automation R&D scientists and partner with experts across Bioinformatics, IT, Variant Science, and other functions to develop the next generation of ...

Ambry Genetics

$110K - $114K/yr

The Clinical Genomic Scientist II is highly proficient in variant classification guidelines and in following report generation protocols to meet requirements for quality and turnaround time. The ...

Ambry Genetics

$110K - $114K/yr

The Clinical Genomic Scientist II is highly proficient in variant classification guidelines and in following report generation protocols to meet requirements for quality and turnaround time. The ...

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How much do variant scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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 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 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.

What are Variant Scientists?

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 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.
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What cities are hiring for Variant Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Variant Scientist job openings:
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Variant Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Variant Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,868 per year, or $47.1 per hour.
Clinical Genomics Variant Scientist

Clinical Genomics Variant Scientist

UCLA Health

Los Angeles, CA

$105K - $234K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

UCLA Health rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 134 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description

The Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory is seeking an experienced Variant Scientist to join our clinical team. In this critical role, you will curate and interpret germline and somatic variants and prepare high-quality clinical reports derived from exome and targeted cancer sequencing assays. You will contribute to variant classification, test development efforts, and clinical research projects that advance precision medicine for patients across UCLA Health and beyond. Primary duties include:

• Review and assess patient clinical notes and sequencing data from high-complexity molecular assays, including Clinical Exome Sequencing, Solid Tumor Sequencing Panels, and Hematologic Malignancy Sequencing Panels.

• Perform variant curation and interpretation using established guidelines and evidence-based resources.

• Draft and refine clinical reports, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and clinical relevance.

• Develop and update SOPs for variant curation, interpretation, and reclassification workflows

• Participate in submitting curated variants to public databases (e.g. ClinVar) and contribute to quality improvement and test development initiatives.

• Collaborate with clinicians, genetic counselors, and laboratory staff to support accurate and timely reporting.

• Contribute to clinical research projects and assist in implementing new molecular diagnostic assays.

Salary Range: $105,700.00 - $234,500.00/year 

Qualifications
• At least two years’ experience in germline variant curation is required. Somatic variant curation experience is a plus.
• Strong working knowledge of laboratory genetics and genomics, including target capture, amplification, and massively parallel sequencing.
• Familiarity with widely used genomic tools such as IGV and UCSC/COSMIC genome browsers
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with clinicians, genetic counselors, and other team members.
• Programming or bioinformatics experience (e.g. R, SAS, Perl, Python, regex, database design) – preferred.
• PhD in human genetics, molecular genetics, cancer biology, or a related discipline – preferred. Master’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, or a closely related field may be considered with relevant experience.

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About UCLA Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

UCLA Health, operating within the healthcare industry, is significantly recognized for its commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of people through the integration of patient care, research, and education. Located in Los Angeles, California, UCLA Health was founded and associated with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1955, entrenching its roots in quality healthcare service provision. Through a broad range of medical services, UCLA Health significantly stands as a cornerstone for comprehensive outpatient, inpatient, and emergency care services, specialized treatments, and wellness checks. Notable for pioneering an integrated, comprehensive medical approach, UCLA Health is consistently ranked among the top health systems in the US and world.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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