Job Information
Amgen Principal Scientist - S San Francisco CA in South San Francisco, California
469861BR
Auto req ID:
469861BR
Company:
Amgen
Job Code:
Pharmaceutical Pharmaceutical
Job Description:
ATTENTION MILITARY AFFILIATED JOB SEEKERS - Our organization works with partner companies to source qualified talent for their open roles. The following position is available to Veterans, Transitioning Military, National Guard and Reserve Members, Military Spouses, Wounded Warriors, and their Caregivers . If you have the required skill set, education requirements, and experience, please click the submit button and follow the next steps. Unless specifically stated otherwise, this role is "On-Site" at the location detailed in the job post.
Let’s do this. Let’s change the world. In this vital role you will build, optimize, and scale the molecular characterization engines behind our GEM platform—bringing rigor, innovation, and technical leadership to the science that powers our research pipeline.
Key Responsibilities:
Genotyping, Molecular Characterization & Assay Development
• Design, develop, and execute genotyping and characterization assays using ddPCR, qPCR, long-read sequencing (ONT), and NGS platforms.
• Develop and implement validation strategies, including:
o Off-target analysis (e.g., CRISPR specificity, rhAmpSeq or similar approaches)
o Copy number variation (CNV) and zygosity determination
o Structural variant and insertion site mapping
o Allele configuration confirmation across model types
• Perform comprehensive characterization of GEMs, including CRISPR-engineered knockout, knock-in, conditional, large insertions, and complex multi-gene models.
• Integrate molecular and sequencing data to generate high-confidence conclusions and support delivery of fully characterized, high-quality models.
Technology Development & Automation
• Drive implementation and optimization of high-throughput workflows, including liquid handling automation and integrated genotyping pipelines.
• Evaluate and implement emerging technologies to enhance model characterization, throughput, and data quality.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of genotyping pipelines and sequencing-based workflows.
• Collaborate with bioinformatics and data teams, where applicable, to support data analysis workflows.
Instrumentation & Lab Infrastructure
• Apply technical expertise to the setup, optimization, and troubleshooting of key instrumentation platforms (e.g., ddPCR systems, ONT platforms, fragment analyzers, automation systems).
• Contribute to development and maintenance of SOPs, instrument logs, and performance tracking.
• Contribute to building scalable lab infrastructure to support increasing GEM portfolio complexity.
Cross-functional Collaboration
• Work closely with the GEM Lead to support execution of the GEM platform and associated workflows.
• Collaborate with Comparative Medicine, Therapeutic Areas, Functional Genomics, and external CROs to ensure coordination of activities.
• Act as a scientific resource to cross-functional teams in support of model validation strategies and risk assessment.
• Communicate clearly and proactively to support alignment on timelines, deliverables, and workflow dependencies.
Operational Excellence & Data Integrity
• Support implementation of sample tracking, data management, and reporting systems (e.g., Benchling or equivalent ELN platforms).
• Ensure accurate documentation and traceability from experimental design through model validation.
• Contribute to defining QC checkpoints that maintain scientific standards and reduce downstream risk.
Scientific Contribution & Knowledge Sharing
• Share expertise and contribute to training of lab personnel in genotyping and molecular workflows.
• Contribute to development of best practices and standardized workflows.
• Contribute to scientific and technical documentation (e.g., study reports, internal documentation, or publications) as appropriate.
Ethical & Scientific Stewardship
• Ensure work aligns with animal welfare considerations and 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement).
• Contribute to optimization of workflows to improve efficiency and minimize unnecessary animal use.
What we expect of you
We are all different, yet we all use our unique contributions to serve patients. The Principal Scientist we seek is a deeply technical and highly pragmatic individual with these qualifications.
Position Title:
Principal Scientist - S San Francisco CA
Job Category:
Engineering
Minimum Education Required:
High School/GED
City*:
South San Francisco
Additional Qualifications/Responsibilities:
We are all different, yet we all use our unique contributions to serve patients. The Principal Scientist we seek is a deeply technical and highly pragmatic individual with these qualifications.
Basic Qualifications:
Doctorate degree PhD OR PharmD OR MD and 2 years of experience in genetically engineered models (GEM), genotyping, and molecular characterization
OR
Master’s degree and 5 years of experience in genetically engineered models (GEM), genotyping, and molecular characterization
OR
Bachelor’s degree and 7 years of experience in genetically engineered models (GEM), genotyping, and molecular characterization
Preferred Qualifications:
Strong hands-on expertise in:
CRISPR genome engineering and complex model generation
ddPCR, qPCR, and long-read sequencing (e.g., Oxford Nanopore Technologies)
NGS workflows and genomic analysis
Demonstrated experience supporting generation and characterization of complex GEM models (KO, KI, conditional, multi-allelic, transgenic) using CRISPR and/or ES cell-based approaches.
Experience with automation platforms and high-throughput screening workflows (e.g., Beckman, Tecan, acoustic dispensing).
Proven ability to contribute to lab workflow development, infrastructure setup, and process optimization.
Experience working with CROs and cross-functional teams in a research environment.
Proficiency with Benchling or similar ELN/LIMS platforms.
Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Demonstrated experience supporting generation and characterization of complex GEM models (KO, KI, conditional, multi-allelic, transgenic) using CRISPR and/or ES cell-based approaches.
Experience with automation platforms and high-throughput screening workflows (e.g., Beckman, Tecan, acoustic dispensing).
Proven ability to contribute to lab workflow development, infrastructure setup, and process optimization.
Experience working with CROs and cross-functional teams in a research environment.
Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Salary Range
165,636.95USD -224,097.05 USD
State*:
California
Salary Range:
$100,000