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Variant Scientist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

HIL System Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$99K - $166K/yr

... variant management requirements Implement and validate test environment, automation, and vehicle ... Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or equivalent ...

HIL System Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$100 - $167/hr

... variant management requirements Implement and validate test environment, automation, and vehicle ... Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or equivalent ...

Senior Software Engineer

Milford, MI · On-site

$107K - $142K/yr

... and all System variant architectural roadmaps. Drive software quality improvements into the ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical ...

Senior Software Engineer

Milford, MI · Hybrid

$107K - $142K/yr

... and all System variant architectural roadmaps. Drive software quality improvements into the ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical ...

... variant architectural roadmaps. * Drive software quality improvements into the software owned by ... MS in Computer Engineering, or Computer Science, Electrical Engineering preferred. * 8+ years of ...

... variant architectural roadmaps. * Drive software quality improvements into the software owned by ... MS in Computer Engineering, or Computer Science, Electrical Engineering preferred. * 8+ years of ...

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Variant Scientist information

See Michigan salary details

$15

$41

$71

How much do variant scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for variant scientist in Michigan is $41.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.98 and $52.35 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Variant Scientist jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Variant Scientist jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Variant Scientist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,945 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Variant Scientist III

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 429 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Work Schedule
Standard (Mon-Fri)
Environmental Conditions
Office
Job Description
As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you'll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world's toughest challenges, like protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or helping find cures for cancer.
Discover Impactful Work
The Variant Scientist III will review, analyze, and compile complex clinical data from primary literature and clinical trials specific to biomarkers in cancer. You'll provide scientific and technical expertise to a cross-functional team of scientists and software developers to build and maintain an internal knowledgebase of genomic aberrations and therapies relevant to cancer. This role is part of the Bioinformatics team within the Clinical Next Generation Sequencing Division. The mission of this business unit is to develop next-generation sequencing-based solutions to support oncology research and other important unmet medical needs.
Location
This is a fully onsite role based in Ann Arbor, MI and relocation assistance is not provided.
A Day in the Life
  • Read, interpret, and curate evidence from approved therapies, clinical guidelines, clinical trials, and scientific literature using customized software tools.
  • Actively participate in the interpretation, analysis, and summarization of various clinical sources for somatic and germline variant annotations and classification.
  • Review primary literature and author summaries that describe the relationships between gene variants and disease prognosis, diagnosis, and therapy selection.
  • Actively provide translational and clinical oncology expertise to the curation team in solid and/or hematological cancers.
  • Follow and maintain sustainable processes that ensure data accuracy and quality.
  • Work in a fast pace, cross-functional team of bioinformatics scientists, variant scientists, and software engineers to define and refine clinical reports.

Keys to Success
Education
  • PhD in cancer biology, cancer genomics, or molecular biology with expertise in solid or heme cancers. Post-doctoral experience preferred but not required.

Experience
  • Demonstrated understanding of cancer genomics, tumor biology, oncogenic signaling pathways.
  • Experience in reviewing and summarizing scientific literature for somatic and germline variants.
  • Experience with cancer mutation databases and disease ontologies.
  • Industry or clinical laboratory experience working in genomic variant curation and clinical interpretation is preferred.
  • Experience with IVD/regulated product development or genetic counseling is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills with ability to multi-task
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Positive attitude with strong interpersonal skills.

Other
  • Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check and drug screen.

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