Scientist, Molecular Assays

Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to treating and potentially curing life-threatening diseases through innovative cell and gene therapy technologies. The Scientist, Molecular Assays will support the development, execution, optimization, and troubleshooting of molecular assays for clinical, translational, and preclinical programs, with a focus on qPCR, ddPCR, and NGS workflows. The role also involves biological sample processing, data analysis, laboratory documentation, and collaboration across multidisciplinary research and development teams.

Responsibilities
• Perform molecular biology experiments supporting clinical, translational, and preclinical research programs
• Execute qPCR and ddPCR assays for gene expression analysis, biomarker quantification, transgene detection, vector copy number determination, and biodistribution studies
• Support development, optimization, qualification, transfer, and troubleshooting of molecular assays
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, quantification, and quality assessment from blood, tissue, cell culture, and other biological samples
• Prepare samples and perform library preparation for next-generation sequencing (NGS) applications, including single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq)
• Operate and maintain molecular biology instrumentation, including qPCR, ddPCR, and NGS-related platforms
• Analyze experimental data, ensure data quality, maintain accurate laboratory documentation, and assist in the preparation of protocols, SOPs, technical reports, and assay-related documents
• Process, track, and manage biological samples using LIMS and ELN systems while ensuring sample integrity and traceability
• Support laboratory operations, including inventory management, sample shipments, equipment maintenance, and laboratory organization
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory workflows, assay performance, and operational efficiency

Skills
• M.S. in Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field with 8+ years of relevant experience, or Ph.D. in a related scientific discipline with 3+ years of relevant experience
• Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, qPCR, RT-qPCR, and/or ddPCR
• Experience with NGS workflows and library preparation; single-cell sequencing experience is a plus
• Familiarity with assay development, data analysis, and biological sample processing
• Experience in cell and gene therapy, immunology, oncology, or regulated laboratory environments is desirable
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and documentation skills
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced laboratory environment
• Commitment to data quality, laboratory safety, and continuous learning
• Work in a clinical, research, pharmaceutical, or diagnostic laboratory
• May require standing for extended periods and lifting up to 25 pounds
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required
• Involve handling biological specimens and hazardous materials following safety guidelines
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States
• Single-cell sequencing experience is a plus

Benefits
• Performance-based bonus and/or equity is available to employees in eligible roles.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with a company match that vests fully on day one.
• Eight (8) weeks of paid parental leave after just three (3) months of employment.
• Paid time off policy that includes vacation time, personal time, sick time, floating holidays, and eleven (11) company holidays.
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
• Life and AD&D insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Legal assistance.
• Supplemental plans such as pet, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance.
• Voluntary commuter benefits.
• Family planning and care resources.
• Well-being initiatives.
• Peer-to-peer recognition programs.
• These benefits are offered exclusively to permanent full-time employees. Contractors are not eligible for benefits through Legend Biotech.

Company Overview
• Legend Biotech is a biopharmaceutical company that develops and commercializes novel cell therapies for oncology. It was founded in 2014, and is headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, USA, with a workforce of 1001-5000 employees. Its website is https://www.legendbiotech.com.