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Scientist 1, Protein Engineering

Illumina


Job Location:

San Diego, CA - USA

Monthly Salary: $ 62900 - 94300
Posted: 19 June 2026 (30+ days ago)
Application Deadline: 16 September 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know Or all of humanity

At Illumina we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.

Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person in every role has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people inspiring leaders and world changing projects you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

Illumina is the worldwide leader in DNA sequencing and genomic technologies. Our innovative tools for DNA RNA and protein analysis are enabling rapid advances in disease research drug development and the development of molecular tests in the clinic.

As part of the Protein Engineering Group in Advanced Science you will work in a dynamic team-oriented environment and participate in the creation of new sequencing technologies and related applications. You will be a key contributor to multidisciplinary teams developing and improving leading-edge technology platforms. You will plan initiate and execute scientific research and help with development strategies and product launches in collaboration with the research staff and through individual studies.

The company moves fast so does the technology we use and the projects we focus on. The ideal candidate is thus adaptable and enthusiastic to learn a wide range of techniques and methods used in life-sciences.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Execute laboratory experiments and analyze results; apply insights to troubleshoot and optimize workflows

  • Support core lab workflows and routine activities that enable progress across multiple protein engineering projects

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (biochemistry molecular biology materials science bioinformatics and engineering) to support NGS product development

  • Collect organize and analyze data; summarize key findings with guidance from project leads

  • Contribute ideas and solutions toward achieving project goals

  • Work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high-quality standards

  • Communicate clearly with team members and stakeholders; present results in technical meetings

Listed responsibilities are an essential but not exhaustive list of the usual duties associated with the position. Changes to individual responsibilities may occur due to business needs.

Position Requirements:

  • Typically requires a Bachelors degree and a minimum of 0-2 years of related experience; or equivalent work experience.

  • Degree in Biochemistry Molecular Biology Bioengineering Chemical Engineering Microbiology Biophysics or a related discipline

  • Hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression and basic protein purification workflows

  • Fundamental knowledge of nucleic acid biochemistry and DNA amplification techniques (e.g. PCR RT-PCR)

  • Familiarity with analytical methods for biomolecular characterization (e.g. qPCR gel electrophoresis UV-Vis fluorescence-based assays)

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

  • Self-motivated proactive and able to work effectively in a dynamic team environment

All listed requirements are deemed as essential functions to this position; however business conditions may require reasonable accommodations for additional tasks and responsibilities.

Preferred Experience/Skills:

  • Experience with recombinant protein expression systems (e.g. bacterial or eukaryotic expression)

  • Experience with protein purification techniques (e.g. affinity ion exchange or size exclusion chromatography)

  • Hands-on experience with gel electrophoresis (DNA and/or protein)

  • Experience with plate-based assays (e.g. fluorescence or absorbance-based assays)

  • Experience with DNA/RNA isolation and basic molecular cloning techniques

  • Familiarity with oligonucleotide design and applications

  • Basic statistical analysis and data interpretation skills

  • Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel and/or JMP

  • Familiarity with using AI-assisted tools (e.g. for data analysis coding support or literature review) to enhance productivity and workflow efficiency

This opportunity would suit a range of scientists looking for a chance to join an organization that is on the cutting edge of biological assays. The candidate can expect a highly innovative and modern environment with global collaboration and top-of-the-line tools and laboratory equipment.

*Please note this requisition will be used to fill multiple openings.

The estimated base salary range for the Scientist 1 Protein Engineering role based in the United States of America is: $62900 - $94300. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process the applicable base pay range may be updated accordingly. The range reflects longterm growth in the role; therefore most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience skills location and internal equity. Additionally all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package. We offer a wide range of benefits as innovative as our work including access to genomics sequencing family planning health/dental/vision retirement benefits and paid time off.

We are a company deeply rooted in belonging promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation Illumina has always prioritized openness collaboration and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay regardless of gender ethnicity or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences increase cultural awareness and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex race creed color gender religion marital status domestic partner status age national origin or ancestry physical or mental disability medical condition sexual orientation pregnancy military or veteran status citizenship status and genetic information. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local state and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local state and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process please contact To learn more visit: The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants.

Required Experience:

IC