Development Scientist I

Brisbane, California

Why join Freenome?

Freenome is a high-growth biotech company developing tests to detect cancer using a standard blood draw. To do this, Freenome uses a multiomics platform that combines tumor and non-tumor signals with machine learning to find cancer in its earliest, most-treatable stages. 

Cancer is relentless. This is why Freenome is building the clinical, economic, and operational evidence to drive cancer screening and save lives. Our first screening test is for colorectal cancer (CRC) and advanced adenomas, and it’s just the beginning. 

Founded in 2014, Freenome has ~400 employees and continues to grow to match the scope of our ambitions to provide access to better screening and earlier cancer detection.  

At Freenome, we aim to impact patients by empowering everyone to prevent, detect, and treat their disease. This, together with our high-performing culture of respect and cross-collaboration, is what motivates us to make every day count.

Become a Freenomer

Do you have what it takes to be a Freenomer? A “Freenomer” is a determined, mission-driven, results-oriented employee fueled by the opportunity to change the landscape of cancer and make a positive impact on patients’ lives. Freenomers bring their diverse experience, expertise, and personal perspective to solve problems and push to achieve what’s possible, one breakthrough at a time.

About this opportunity:

At Freenome, we are seeking a Development Scientist to help grow the Process Development team within Genomics Early Development. The ideal candidate will work to optimize next-generation sequencing (NGS) processes and develop new methodologies on our multiomics platform. This person will work cross-functionally with Research & Development, Automation, Computation Science, Quality, Regulatory, Laboratory Operations, and Program Management on the development, characterization, scale-up and transfer of complex methodologies, processes and assays to Operations.  You are passionate about contributing to developing life-saving diagnostics through early cancer detection, and you will have a significant impact on the continued growth of an organization dedicated to changing the entire landscape of cancer.
The role reports to the Senior Manager of Genomics Early Development. This role will be an onsite role based in our Brisbane, California headquarters. 

What you’ll do:

  • Apply hands-on knowledge of molecular biology, nucleic-acid biochemistry and next generation sequencing to develop and optimize NGS based methods and processes following principles of Design Controls for IVD development
  • Design and execute experiments to characterize and optimize NGS workflows, converting prototypes into high-throughput automated assays
  • Performs advanced analysis and data visualizations to answer experimental questions and identify areas for workflow optimization
  • Present findings at team meetings and prepare technical reports for internal and external stakeholders
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate process improvements into the overall diagnostic workflow
  • Author and operationalize Standard Operating Procedures and Work Instructions in collaboration with Laboratory Operations and Clinical Laboratory for transfer
  • Troubleshoots complex workflow issues, design and execute root-cause determinant experiments, and propose effective data-driven solutions
  • Maintain detailed records of experiments, data, results and methodologies in compliance with Good Laboratory and Documentation Practices (cGLP, cGDP)

Must haves:

  • Bachelor’s in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field with 6+ years of experience, or PhD with 2+ years of related experience. Prior experience in diagnostic development setting is preferred
  • Strong molecular biology background and hands-on experience in NGS based techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, and sequencing
  • Experience with low-volume, plate-based assay formats; automated liquid handler and ability to design for automated platforms are highly desirable
  • A proven track record of designing, planning, and executing complex experiments. Demonstrated ability to critically analyze data and formulate data-driven conclusions
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. Effectively communicates with team and cross-functional partners. Ability to present and explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences
  • High attention to detail - record and document accurate, objective observations, assess impact, and perform troubleshooting as needed
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, proactively looks for potential roadblocks, characterizes root causes to problems and collaborates with appropriate stakeholders
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a cross-functional team
  • Flexible and adaptable to change and embrace a fluid work environment

Nice to haves:

  • Experience in molecular diagnostic assay development in an FDA regulated environment for an in vitro diagnostic (IVD) under design control is desirable. Lab Developed Test (LDT) /CLIA and CE-IVD experience will also be considered
  • Hands-on experience with plasma handling and cfDNA in NGS workflows 
  • Familiarity in a common scientific programming language (e.g., Python, R) is desirable
  • Familiarity or experience with building automation methods is a plus

Benefits and additional information:

The US target range of our base salary for new hires is $118,150 - $180,500. You will also be eligible to receive pre-IPO equity, cash bonuses, and a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits depending on the position offered.  Please note that individual total compensation for this position will be determined at the Company’s sole discretion and may vary based on several factors, including but not limited to, location, skill level, years and depth of relevant experience, and education. We invite you to check out our career page @ freenome.com/job-openings/ for additional company information.  

Freenome is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer, and we value diversity. Freenome does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws.  

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