Principal Scientist, Nucleic Acid Technology Full-time

Join Roche

At Roche you can show up as yourself, embraced for the unique qualities you bring. Our culture encourages personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where you are valued, accepted and respected for who you are, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally. This is how we aim to prevent, stop and cure diseases and ensure everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Join Roche, where every voice matters.

The Position

At Roche Diagnostics, we are at the forefront of molecular diagnostics, driving innovations that improve patient care and global health. Join our dynamic and inclusive team, and contribute to groundbreaking research in nucleic acid-based diagnostic technologies.

We are looking for a highly motivated and skilled Principal Scientist, Nucleic Acid Technology Specialist to support the development of advanced molecular diagnostics technologies. This role requires expertise in both preparative chromatography and analytical techniques, spanning the entire product development lifecycle—from early-stage research through on-market support.

As part of the Chemistry Team, you will have access to cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art instrumentation, enabling you to contribute meaningfully to advancements in molecular diagnostics. Your work will directly impact global health, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field of diagnostics.

The Opportunity

You will:

• Advanced research & development: Synthesize, purify, characterize complex oligonucleotides, their analogs, and related small molecule reagents. Drive process optimization to enable efficient scale-up and successful product launches.
• Use analytical method development: Innovate new analytical methods for characterizing reagents and assay performance, with applications spanning R&D and operations.
• Problem solve: Design and execute advanced troubleshooting experiments independently and in collaboration with cross-functional teams. Develop assays that push the limits of system understanding and error detection to ensure robust designs.
• Support/oversee data & documentation transfer: Depending on your experience, you will manage knowledge handoffs of prototype methods and assist in transferring comprehensive documentation from research stages to development and manufacturing teams.
• Expert collaborator: Act as a subject matter expert to provide technical depth across R&D departments and operations.

This position is based on-site in Pleasanton, CA. Relocation benefits are not offered for this role.

Who You Are:

(Required)

• You hold a Ph.D. (preferred) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Medical Chemistry or a related field and have at least 2+ years of relevant industry experience, OR you hold a Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Medical Chemistry or a related field with 5+ years of industry experience.
• You have a high level of experimental expertise: You bring comprehensive experience and problem-solving skills in UPLC/HPLC, ion pair chromatography, ion exchange, advanced mass spectrometry, absorption spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy.
• You have nucleic acid & reagent expertise: You possess in-depth knowledge of DNA, RNA, modified oligonucleotides (including dye- and non-natural modifications), and small molecule reagents. You also demonstrate strong expertise in purifying and characterizing oligonucleotides and small molecules.
• You are highly proficient in advanced assay design: You have proven skills in oligonucleotide characterization, experimental design, particularly in developing and optimizing sophisticated analytical assays.

(Preferred)

• You are highly proficient in efficiently organizing and maintaining a research laboratory.
• You have a high level of experience with synthetic chemistry or automated DNA synthesis platforms, phosphoramidite chemistry, and click chemistry.
• You have demonstrated working knowledge of PCR and/or other amplification technologies.
• You are a highly organized communicator with a strong attention to detail, expert technical writing skills to enable the preparation of clear, detailed documentation, including analytical reports.
• You excel in verbal and written communication, making you an effective cross-disciplinary collaborator.
• You are proactive and collaborative; exhibiting a proactive approach to problem-solving, a growth mindset, and a passion for contributing to a collaborative workplace culture.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of Pleasanton, CA is $111,000 – $206,500. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply. The role's level (& title) may be adjusted based on experience and qualifications.

A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Who We Are

A healthier future drives us to innovate. Together, more than 100'000 employees across the globe are dedicated to advance science, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Our efforts result in more than 26 million people treated with our medicines and over 30 billion tests conducted using our Diagnostics products. We empower each other to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep our ambitions high, so we can deliver life-changing healthcare solutions that make a global impact.

Let's build a healthier future, together.

Roche is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of protected veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form.