At Roche you can show up as yourself, embraced for the unique qualities you bring. Our culture encourages personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where you are valued, accepted and respected for who you are, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally. This is how we aim to prevent, stop and cure diseases and ensure everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Join Roche, where every voice matters.

The Position

We are looking for a highly motivated and skilled Principal Scientist to support the development of advanced molecular diagnostics technologies. This role requires expertise in both preparative chromatography and analytical techniques, spanning the entire product development lifecycle—from early-stage research through on-market support.

As part of the Chemistry Team, you will have access to cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art instrumentation, enabling you to contribute meaningfully to advancements in molecular diagnostics. Your work will directly impact global health, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the field of diagnostics.

The Opportunity

Advanced Research & Development:
You will synthesize, purify, characterize complex nucleotides, phosphoramidites, oligonucleotides, their analogs, and related small molecule reagents. You will drive process optimization to enable efficient scale-up and successful product launches.
Analytical Method Support:
You will support and utilize analytical methods for characterizing reagents, reactions, and assay performance, with applications spanning R&D and Operations.
Problem Solving:
You will design and execute advanced troubleshooting experiments independently and in collaboration with cross-functional teams. You will develop assays that push the limits of system understanding and error detection to ensure robust designs.
Data & Documentation Transfer:
You might manage knowledge handoffs of prototype methods and assist in transferring comprehensive documentation from research stages to development and manufacturing teams.
Expert Collaboration:
You will act as a subject matter expert to provide technical depth across R&D departments and operations.

Who You Are:
(Required)

You have Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Medical Chemistry (or a related field) and have at least 2+ years of relevant industry experience, OR you hold a Master’s Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Medical Chemistry (or a related field) with 5+ years of industry experience
You have demonstrated experience and problem-solving skills in UPLC/HPLC, ion pair chromatography, ion exchange, advanced mass spectrometry, absorption spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy.
You have a high level of knowledge of synthetic methods for nucleotides, phosphoramidites, oligonucleotides (including post-synthetic modification) and considerable understanding of PCR methodologies.
You have demonstrated in-depth knowledge of DNA, RNA, modified oligonucleotides (including dye- and non-natural modifications), and small molecule reagents. You also have a strong level of expertise in purifying and characterizing oligonucleotides and small molecules.
You have proven skills in experimental design, particularly in developing and optimizing sophisticated analytical assays applied to oligonucleotides and PCR..

Preferred:

Your attention to detail and technical writing skills enable you to prepare clear, detailed documentation, including analytical reports.
You exhibit a proactive approach to problem-solving, a growth mindset, and a passion for contributing to a collaborative workplace culture.
You have demonstrated Interpersonal skills: Strong verbal communication and influencing skills; can influence without authority and has proven experience building and cultivating relationships with key partners and stakeholders, both internally and externally

The expected salary range for this position is based on the primary location of Pleasanton, CA is $111,000 - $206,500. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance.

This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.
Benefits

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Who we are

A healthier future drives us to innovate. Together, more than 100’000 employees across the globe are dedicated to advance science, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Our efforts result in more than 26 million people treated with our medicines and over 30 billion tests conducted using our Diagnostics products. We empower each other to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep our ambitions high, so we can deliver life-changing healthcare solutions that make a global impact.

Let’s build a healthier future, together.

Roche is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.