Senior Bioinformatics Scientist - United KingdomHybrid, Cambridge UK
DescriptionWhat 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.
As Sr Bioinformatics Scientist here at Illumina in Cambridge, you will join a multidisciplinary and multinational team at the intersection of research and clinical practice, focused on transforming human health through next-generation sequencing technologies. In this role, you will contribute to the development and advancement of DRAGEN, Illumina’s industry-leading secondary analysis platform, creating innovative algorithms and biomarkers that help address critical gaps in clinical oncology. Working closely with both internal and external collaborators, you will play a key role in advancing precision medicine through cutting-edge analysis of high-throughput sequencing data, including applications in areas such as minimal residual disease (MRD) and methylation.
Why You:You are passionate about using genomics to transform the practice of medicine and are motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient outcomes. You bring a strong background in bioinformatics, computational biology, statistics, mathematics, or a related discipline, combined with expertise in algorithm development and the analysis of next-generation sequencing data.
To be successful in this role, you will possess deep knowledge in at least two of the following areas: statistics, common bioinformatics methods, NGS analysis, C++ software development, and oncology. You have a proven track record of developing bioinformatics algorithms beyond the use of existing tools and enjoy solving complex scientific challenges through innovative thinking and rigorous analysis. Strong programming skills in Python are essential, and experience with C++ is highly desirable.
You thrive in collaborative, cross-functional environments and are an effective communicator who can translate complex technical concepts to a variety of audiences. You are driven by curiosity, innovation, and a commitment to excellence while embracing Illumina’s value of Win Together through productive partnerships across scientific, engineering, and commercial teams.
Responsibilities:- Assess and improve existing secondary analysis algorithms for somatic variant calling and tumor biomarker detection
- Prototype and evaluate novel NGS algorithms for clinical oncology applications, including MRD and emerging biomarker opportunities
- Analyze sequencing data at the read level to identify opportunities for algorithmic improvements and innovative solutions
- Design, execute, and interpret experiments in partnership with internal and external research and development teams
- Support the development and optimization of oncology assays through advanced bioinformatics analysis
- Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to troubleshoot challenges and implement production-ready solutions
- Provide technical guidance and subject matter expertise to internal stakeholders and external partners
- Communicate project plans, recommendations, and results effectively to diverse audiences
- Contribute to cross-functional assay and algorithm research and development initiatives with a high degree of independence
- Innovate with purpose by developing impactful technologies that support better clinical decision-making and improved patient outcomes
Compensation & BenefitsThe estimated base salary range for the Senior Bioinformatics Scientist role based in United Kingdom is GBP 44,000 - 66,000. The range reflects long‑term growth in the role; therefore, most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. This salary range applies to the primary posting location listed above. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range will be updated accordingly. Compensation ranges for other locations will differ to reflect local market competitiveness and will be shared with candidates if applicable during the recruitment process.
Additionally, all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package.
We offer a thoughtfully designed benefits package that supports your wellbeing, flexibility, and life beyond work—combining globally differentiated offerings with locally tailored programs. This includes support during important life moments, flexible time off, opportunities to give back, and a weeklong company-wide summer shutdown. In the UK, we also offer flexible benefits, a company contribution of 10% into your pension, and private medical insurance, alongside additional benefits to support you and your family.
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. 
