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Principal Ii Scientist – Applied Chemistry, Fluidic Systems, Research & Early Development

7-11 years
$125,500 – $233,500,
10 Nov. 20, 2025
Job Description
Job Type: Full Time Education: B.Sc./ M.Sc./ M.Pharm/ B.Pharm/ Life Sciences Skills: Causality Assessment, Clinical SAS Programming, Communication Skills, CPC Certified, GCP guidelines, ICD-10 CM Codes, CPT-Codes, HCPCS Codes, ICD-10 CM, CPT, HCPCS Coding, ICH guidelines, ICSR Case Processing, Interpersonal Skill, Labelling Assessment, MedDRA Coding, Medical Billing, Medical Coding, Medical Terminology, Narrative Writing, Research & Development, Technical Skill, Triage of ICSRs, WHO DD Coding

 Principal II Scientist – Applied Chemistry, Fluidic Systems, Research & Early Development
Location: Santa Clara, California, United States
Category: Research & Development
Job ID: 202510-125749

Company Overview:
Roche is a global leader in healthcare innovation, advancing next-generation sequencing (NGS) solutions to accelerate clinical research and improve patient outcomes. Our integrated platforms span sample preparation, sequencing, and bioinformatics, creating seamless “sample in, result out” workflows. Roche fosters a culture of inclusion, scientific excellence, and continuous learning, empowering employees to innovate and thrive professionally.

Position Overview:
Roche Sequencing Solutions is seeking a Principal II Scientist to lead applied chemistry initiatives within our Systems Technology Group. This hands-on role requires a multidisciplinary expert capable of developing and integrating novel chemical processes and formulations to enhance the performance, reliability, and longevity of complex fluidic systems. You will lead early-stage R&D projects, collaborate with engineers across materials, mechanical, and consumables disciplines, and translate fundamental chemistry into practical system solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

Chemistry Innovation & Process Development:

  • Invent, screen, and validate chemical formulations and buffer additives to reduce biofouling and non-specific adsorption.

  • Develop novel chemistries and conjugation methods for coating, polymer, and biomolecule attachment to diverse surfaces.

  • Optimize chemical processes to ensure robust, reproducible performance and eliminate carryover in fluidic systems.

  • Conduct root cause investigations for system-level contamination and process inefficiencies.

Assay Development & System Performance:

  • Design and implement analytical workflows to assess surface modifications, ligand density, binding capacity, and chemical stability.

  • Develop trace contaminant detection methods using advanced instrumentation and external laboratory collaborations.

  • Utilize modeling and simulation tools to optimize chemical and fluidic workflows and predict system behavior.

Workflow Implementation & System Troubleshooting:

  • Conduct hands-on experiments with breadboards, custom fixtures, and prototype systems to optimize chemical workflows.

  • Troubleshoot complex, integrated systems using first-principles problem-solving spanning chemistry, materials, hardware, and software.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Strategy:

  • Serve as the subject matter expert on applied chemistry, collaborating with engineers to select, test, and qualify materials for chemical compatibility.

  • Integrate chemical processes with system architecture, ensuring proper fluidic control, thermal management, and automated protocols.

  • Manage external analytical partnerships, ensuring high-quality data, cost-effectiveness, and efficient workflows.

  • Analyze complex data, author technical reports, generate IP, and present strategic recommendations to leadership.

Experience & Qualifications (Required):

  • PhD in Chemistry or related field with 7+ years of industry experience, OR Master’s degree with 9+ years, OR Bachelor’s degree with 11+ years of relevant industry experience.

  • Hands-on expertise in surface chemistry, bioconjugation, and solid-liquid interface interactions.

  • Proven experience developing chemical processes for complex fluidic or microfluidic systems in life sciences, sequencing, or diagnostics.

  • Extensive experience developing and implementing analytical assays to quantify chemical performance.

  • Proficiency in chemical and materials characterization techniques.

  • Strong problem-solving skills in complex, integrated systems.

  • Demonstrated ability to lead technical initiatives and mentor junior scientists.

  • Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with NGS chemistry, solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, and multi-step enzymatic workflows.

  • Expertise in surface characterization, contamination mitigation, DOE, and SPC methodologies.

  • Proven track record of innovation with patents and/or publications.

  • Experience managing external labs and service agreements.

  • Action-oriented, decisive problem-solver with a passion for scientific discovery.

Location & Compensation:

  • On-site: Santa Clara, California (not hybrid).

  • Salary Range: $125,500 – $233,500, based on experience, qualifications, and location.

  • Discretionary annual bonus may apply.

  • Comprehensive benefits package included.

Why Join Roche:
Roche offers a unique opportunity to lead applied chemistry innovation in next-generation sequencing, driving breakthroughs that impact global healthcare. Collaborate with top-tier scientists and engineers in a fast-paced, cutting-edge R&D environment. Roche is committed to inclusion, professional growth, and empowering employees to deliver life-changing healthcare solutions.

Application & Accommodation:
Candidates requiring accommodations during the application process may contact Roche via the Accommodations for Applicants form.


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