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Variant Scientist Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Security Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$184K - $253K/yr

Variant Bio is developing life-saving therapies by studying the genes of people with exceptional ... S. in Computer Science or related field, or equivalent experience. * 8+ years designing and ...

Senior Security Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$184K - $253K/yr

ABOUT THE ROLE At Variant Bio, protecting the data entrusted to us by our partner communities is ... S. in Computer Science or related field, or equivalent experience. * 8+ years designing and ...

In addition, Variant Bio has established strategic partnerships with Novo Nordisk and Boehringer ... Experience at an early-stage biotech, life sciences, or clinical-stage company. * Background ...

Variant Bio is developing life-saving therapies by studying the genes of people with exceptional ... Experience at an early-stage biotech, life sciences, or clinical-stage company. * Background ...

Experience at an early-stage biotech, life sciences, or clinical-stage company. * Background ... COMPENSATION & PERKS At Variant Bio, we're building something meaningful and we believe supporting ...

Variant Scientist information

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Variant Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Variant Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Variant Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA? For Variant Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Variant Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Variant Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Variant Scientist job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Senior Security Engineer

Variant Bio

Seattle, WA • On-site

$184K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Variant Bio is developing life-saving therapies by studying the genes of people with exceptional health-related traits. By identifying communities with unique genetic architectures and outlier phenotypes, Variant Bio has identified novel human genetic evidence that is the basis for programs with breakthrough potential across multiple therapeutic areas. The company's research is powered by its proprietary Inference platform, which integrates across deep phenotyping and multi-omic data using statistical genetics and AI/ML approaches to identify and validate therapeutic targets. In addition, Variant Bio has established strategic partnerships with Novo Nordisk and Boehringer Ingelheim, validating the strength of the platform and enabling the advancement of novel therapeutic programs through world-class development expertise.
With ethics at its core, the company launched an unprecedented benefit-sharing program in 2020, in which it has pledged tangible benefits that directly impact the communities it partners with throughout the world.
ABOUT THE ROLE
At Variant Bio, protecting the data entrusted to us by our partner communities is fundamental to our mission. We're seeking a Senior Security Engineer to build and monitor the systems that safeguard our products and infrastructure, along with the privacy of the people who work with us.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Monitor, detect, and respond to threats across Variant Bio's products and AWS cloud infrastructure.
  • Design and implement security tools and solutions as needs evolve.
  • Perform regular policy review and compliance assessments.
  • Develop security-focused code, libraries, and frameworks for use across engineering teams, and collaborate with security and product development teammates to solve complex challenges and raise the bar across the organization.
QUALIFICATIONS
Must Have...
  • B.S. or M.S. in Computer Science or related field, or equivalent experience.
  • 8+ years designing and implementing security systems, tools, or frameworks.
  • Strong experience with AWS security services, IAM, SSO, and Control Tower for multi-account governance, including administering cross-account and cross-region IAM permissions.
  • Networking experience with knowledge of VPN and Zero Trust connectivity.
  • Extensive knowledge of attacker tactics, techniques, and procedures.
  • Proficiency in Python, Rust, or another programming language.
  • Ability to rapidly prototype and iterate on security solutions.
Nice to Have...
  • Knowledge of AI/ML security, including model pipelines, training data, and emerging threats such as prompt injection and data exfiltration.
  • A track record of driving ISO 27001 or SOC 2 readiness.
  • Background securing systems in a clinical, healthcare, or FDA-regulated environment.
  • Familiarity with data handling regulations, including HIPAA and GDPR.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence engineers building security products.
  • Contributions to the security or privacy community (research, open source, presentations).
COMPENSATION & PERKS
At Variant Bio, we're building something meaningful and we believe supporting our people is essential to that mission. We offer a thoughtful and competitive set of benefits designed to support your health, growth, and life outside of work.
  • Competitive Compensation & Equity - Market-competitive salary with the opportunity to participate in company equity and share in our long-term success.
  • Comprehensive Health Benefits - Variant Bio covers 100% of employee premiums for medical, dental, and vision insurance. Dependents may be added to the plan at an incremental cost.
  • Flexible Time Off - Flexible paid time off and company holidays, with an emphasis on trust and personal responsibility.
  • 401(k) Plan - Employer-sponsored retirement plan with company match.
  • Professional Growth - Support for learning and development.
  • Collaborative, Mission-Driven Culture - Work alongside a highly engaged, interdisciplinary team passionate about transforming human health through genetics.
  • Early-Stage Impact - A chance to make a meaningful contribution at a growing biotech where your work has visible impact.

Anticipated annual base salary for this position is $160,000 - $220,000 plus up to 15% bonus and an options package, for total compensation of up $184,000 - $253,000 plus equity options. The annual salary range above is based on the responsibilities and qualifications listed above. Individual salary will depend on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Don't meet every single requirement but are excited to join the Variant Bio team? If your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may still be the right candidate for this or other roles.
Variant Bio is an equal opportunity employer that guarantees a work environment that respects and values diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.