Predicta Biosciences is a precision oncology company that integrates cutting-edge multiomics and liquid biopsies to create innovative diagnostic and therapeutic products. By eliminating the need for invasive bone-marrow biopsies and using small blood-based samples, Predicta enhances immunotherapy treatment decision-making. Additionally, Predicta has developed an in-house therapeutic pipeline focused on novel immunotherapy targets in pre-clinical discovery and development.

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior R&D Scientist to lead assay development efforts focused on NGS technologies, including single-cell RNA-seq and whole genome sequencing. The ideal candidate should have a strong technical background in molecular biology and genomics, and experience developing highly robust and reproducible assays deployed in clinical or research settings. This individual will play a key role in developing assays for the characterization of immune function, translating early research concepts into clinical assays. A strong understanding of immunology and immune-cell biology will therefore be highly beneficial. This laboratory-based scientist should be passionate about developing cutting-edge genomic assays and will work closely with an inter-disciplinary and cross-functional team of other laboratory-based scientists and computational biologists, focused on improving blood-based cancer diagnostic capabilities in areas including cancer detection, measurable residual disease, and other related applications.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize molecular assays for diagnostic applications with a focus on immune characterization and an emphasis on single-cell RNA-based solutions
• Contribute to development and optimization of NGS workflows, including library preparation, sample processing, and quality control
• Evaluate and implement new technologies, reagents, and platforms to improve assay performance, robustness, and scalability
• Plan and execute experiments independently, analyze data, and clearly communicate results to internal stakeholders
• Collaborate closely with the R&D and computational biology teams to ensure seamless integration of wet-lab and analytical workflows
• Develop and document standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols, and technical reports suitable for regulated environments
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to building best practices within the R&D organization
• Support technology transfer from R&D into product development and clinical operations as needed
• Other duties as assigned

Experience needed

• PhD (or BS/MSc with significant industry experience) in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, bioengineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology and assay development, preferably in a cutting-edge research/R&D environment
• Deep expertise with single-cell RNA-seq technologies (e.g. scRNA-seq, scWGS, scATAC-seq, scMultiomics, etc.), associated sample preparation methods, and quality control
• Deep expertise in NGS technologies, including library prep, sequencing platforms, and workflow optimization
• Strong experimental design, troubleshooting, and data interpretation skills
• Demonstrated success working with cross-functional, fast-moving research or startup environments and collaborating with computational scientists
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to handle several fast-paced projects concurrently
• Demonstrated curiosity and scientific rigor with excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to engage in crucial conversations – providing and receiving feedback

Preferred qualifications

• Solid working knowledge of immunology, particularly as it relates to immune-cell phenotyping
• Background in immunology, immuno-oncology, or immune-mediated diseases
• Experience developing assays intended for clinical or regulated use (e.g., CLIA, CAP, or FDA-regulated environments)
• Familiarity with computational methods for analysis of single-cell and other NGS data, especially for quality control
• Prior experience bringing assays from early research through to product development
• Experience with automation of cell and molecular biology assays, especially sample extraction and NGS library preparation

Work Location

This role is based in Cambridge, MA and is an full time in-office role. Travel or potential relocation to North Carolina in the future may be required.

Why Join Predicta Biosciences?

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a mission-driven team advancing precision diagnostics for hematologic cancers. You’ll play a key role in shaping the quality and performance of our clinical testing efforts and contribute directly to patient-impactful innovations.

The annual salary range for this position is $120,000 - $180,000 plus a 10% bonus opportunity. Predicta considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, skills, education, qualifications, and geographic location. Actual compensation will vary, and it is not typical to be hired at or near the top of the range for the role. Additional rewards include equity, flexible time off, 401k Plan, medical, dental and vision plans that are 90% paid by Predicta and a partially company funded HSA.