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.

Scientist 1 – Materials/Surface Scientist – Cambridge, United Kingdom

Based onsite in our Cambridge office

About the Role
As part of the global Materials and Applied Surface Science group, you will contribute to the development of new sequencing and array technologies, along with related applications. This is a fast-paced, innovative environment requiring adaptability to a wide range of life-science techniques and methods.

Based at our European Headquarters just south of Cambridge on Granta Park we require a graduate scientist to join our Advanced Science department on a permanent basis.

This opportunity is ideal for a recent chemistry or materials science graduate chemist with experience in synthesis or applied synthetic methods seeking to work at the forefront of biological assay development. We are unable to consider Ph.D. level candidates for this role.

The successful candidate will collaborate with our global teams and have access to cutting-edge tools, hardware and training/development opportunities.

Preferred background and skillset

• Preferably, a degree in Chemistry or a Materials Science discipline
• Knowledge or chemical synthesis, polymer and organic chemistry or novel materials design and characterisation techniques.
• Understanding of basic sensor design and fundamentals of DNA biochemistry.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to early-stage development and innovation of sequencing and array technologies.
• Support the transition of matured technologies into technology and product development.
• Follow established guidelines and standard procedures to determine appropriate actions.
• Build working relationships within cross-site teams to exchange information with colleagues, supervisors, and project leaders.
• Receive general instruction on new assignments, periodically working independently.
• Communicate weekly with teams in the US and Singapore; occasional travel to these locations is expected.

Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s or Master's degree required; preferred fields include Chemistry or Materials Science.
• Experience with chemical techniques and characterisation is essential.
• Additional desirable skills: Familiarity with polymerisation techniques, handling macromolecules, microscopy techniques (e.g., confocal, TEM), experience with DNA and proteins, and programming/script editing.
• Comfortable working in a collaborative, innovation-driven team environment.

What You Can Expect

At Illumina, we push boundaries, think beyond convention, and dream big. Our team is bright, energetic, and dedicated—driving innovation and impact. We offer a competitive benefits program that reflects the value our people bring. When you join Illumina, the opportunities are endless.All listed requirements are considered essential functions of this position; however, business conditions may require reasonable accommodations for additional tasks and responsibilities.

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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 accommodations@illumina.com. To learn more, visit: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf. The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.