Scientist (Synthetic Chemistry) in Cambridge

At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realise 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.

We are seeking a Scientist (Synthetic Chemistry) here at Illumina in Cambridge, where you will join our synthetic chemistry group within the global Research and Development organisation, contributing to the development of novel molecules that underpin the core chemistries of our world-leading DNA sequencing technology.

The Role: As a Scientist (Synthetic Chemistry) you will be working alongside experienced PhD-level chemists, you will prepare and analyse samples, run experiments, and develop methods on Illumina instruments. Your work will directly support innovation across multidisciplinary teams and play an important part in advancing our mission to improve human health. Full training will be provided, and in this role, you will collaborate closely with senior scientists, taking ownership of results and embodying our value of Innovate with Purpose.

Why You: You will bring a degree in Chemistry or a related field such as Biochemistry (BSc or MSc), with practical experience in synthetic or organic chemistry forming the foundation of your technical capability. You will be confident with basic laboratory techniques and eager to deepen your skills in modern synthetic chemistry methods, analytical techniques including HPLC, Mass Spectrometry, and NMR, and experimental design. You will be highly motivated, organised, and ready to learn in a fast-moving environment where collaboration and accountability matter. Your strong communication skills and your ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams will help you thrive, contributing to an environment where we Win Together.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Synthesize target molecules independently using modern synthetic chemistry methods.
• Purify, analyse, and fully characterise isolated molecules using appropriate analytical techniques.
• Record and document synthetic procedures, analyses, and results accurately and in a timely manner.
• Present results regularly to management and at team meetings.
• Support routine equipment and laboratory maintenance activities.
• Collaborate with and provide support to senior scientists within the chemistry group as required.

What You Can Expect: Our team members are bright, energetic, and dedicated - they are the driving force behind our innovation and impact. To attract the best and brightest, we offer a competitive employee benefits program. We view it as a smart investment in our people, one that recognises the tremendous value they bring to our business every day. At Illumina, we push boundaries. We think beyond the conventional. We dream big. With the energy of so many bright and accomplished people, the opportunities are endless.

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 prioritised 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.