Scientist II, qPCR Molecular Biologist Full-time

Scientist II In Molecular Biology

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.

Join our R&D team at Thermo Fisher Scientific and make a meaningful impact on global health through innovative molecular biology research and development. As a Scientist II in Molecular Biology, you will develop next-generation sequencing technologies, diagnostic assays, and molecular biology products that help our customers make breakthrough discoveries. Working with advanced equipment, you'll collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive product development from concept through commercialization. You'll have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research while enjoying the resources and stability of a global leader in serving science.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize qPCR assays for gene expression, genotyping, copy number variation, and pathogen detection.
• Plan and execute experiments independently, ensuring data quality, reproducibility, and technical excellence.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, cDNA synthesis, and quantification using standard molecular methods.
• Validate assay performance (sensitivity, specificity, and efficiency) and analyze results using platforms such as Applied Biosystems QuantStudio™ or Bio-Rad CFX Manager.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and implement improvements to enhance assay performance.
• Maintain detailed experimental records and prepare technical reports, SOPs, and validation documentation.
• Collaborate with product development, bioinformatics, and assay design teams to integrate molecular workflows.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols, quality systems, and regulatory requirements (ISO, GLP, CLIA).

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's or Master's in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related life sciences discipline. Experience requirements will vary based on degree.

Experience

• Minimum of 1-4 years of hands-on experience performing qPCR. Experience requirements will vary based on degree.
• Prior experience with assay development, validation, and data analysis.
• Familiarity with nucleic acid extraction instruments is a plus.

Technical Skills

• Understanding of molecular biology principles, qPCR kinetics, and assay troubleshooting.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset.
• Strong understanding of qPCR principles, primer/probe design, and amplification kinetics.
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistical interpretation, and report generation.
• Experience working under quality and regulatory standards preferred.

Soft Skills

• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Strong attention to detail and scientific curiosity.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools for assay design.
• Experience with NGS.
• Experience with digital PCR (dPCR).
• Experience with qPCR multiplexing.
• Knowledge of automation and data management systems.