Scientist I (Reverse Translation Genomics)

Scientist I (Reverse Translation Genomics)
$38 - $42/hr with medical benefits available at a cost
6 month initial contract with possibility of extensions
100% onsite position out of North Chicago, IL
8 am to 5 pm Monday – Friday

Orion Group and a market leading pharmaceutical company are teaming up for an exciting contract opportunity in North Chicago, IL! Our client is seeking candidates with strong working knowledge of genetics and genomics principles.


Position Overview:
The Reverse Translation Genomics Scientist sits within the Genomic Technologies (GTECH) organization of the Genomics Research Center (GRC) and is designed for a scientist capable of independently executing experimental workloads, troubleshooting complex laboratory challenges, and interpreting genomic data to support translational and discovery research.

This scientist will support the Reverse Translation initiatives by generating high‑quality genotyping data sets using microarray‑based platforms. The successful candidate will operate with a high degree of scientific autonomy and drive experiments end‑to‑end while partnering closely with GRC scientists, bioinformatics collaborators, and therapeutic area stakeholders to deliver robust, decision‑enabling data sets.

Key Responsibilities:
Genomic Data Generation, Data Quality & Scientific Interpretation

• Independently plan, execute, troubleshoot, and deliver high‑throughput genomic workflows to produce high‑quality genotyping data sets that support reverse translation, biomarker, and or discovery/development programs
• Drive validated end‑to‑end genotyping workflows utilizing microarray platforms, from experimental setup through data handoff within expected timelines
• Independently operate, maintain, and troubleshoot microarray and liquid‑handling platforms to ensure consistent data quality, robustness, and throughput
• Accountable for data quality by independently performing QC, identifying root causes of failures, and implementing corrective and/or preventive actions
• Apply scientific judgment to recommend follow‑up experiments, assay adjustments, or alternative approaches
• Accurately document experimental design, execution, troubleshooting, and outcomes in accordance with laboratory and data governance standards
• Prepare clear written summaries and reports, and present data, interpretations, conclusions, and recommendations to technical, project, or senior leadership stakeholders
• Maintain reagent inventory and coordinate with management to ensure uninterrupted experimental execution

Basic Qualifications Needed:

• Bachelor’s degree in Genetics, Genomics, Molecular Biology, or a related field with typically 2+ years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree in Genetics/Genomics or a related field with 2+ hands‑on laboratory experience
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute and troubleshoot genomic laboratory workflows
• Proven experience generating and assessing quality metrics of genomic data sets
• Strong working knowledge of genetics and genomics principles
• High attention to detail with strong data ownership mindset
• Experience operating and troubleshooting high‑throughput and automated laboratory workflows
• Adhere to established SOPs and independently contribute to the development, revision, and continuous improvement of laboratory procedures
• Contribute to the evaluation, development, and validation of innovative technologies aligned with reverse translation and GTECH or organizational strategic priorities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience generating genotyping data using microarray platforms and performing data QC
• Experience with NGS library preparation, sequencing, and primary data QC
• Experience with nucleic acid QC, sample tracking, and LIMS
• Prior experience in a high throughput industry or centralized genomics core laboratory environment
  

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