Job Description

What 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.

Senior Bioinformatics Scientist - Cambridge, UK

Hybrid working

As Senior Bioinformatics Scientist here at Illumina in the United Kingdom, you will join a multidisciplinary and multinational team dedicated to supporting genomics researchers and advancing discoveries that improve human health. This role sits within our bioinformatics organisation, with a primary focus on reproductive health product development and clinical products. You will work closely with assay development, regulatory, and bioinformatics teams to develop innovative NIPT solutions, analyse complex datasets, and ensure customers achieve the best possible outcomes from our technologies. The position offers broad collaboration across global teams and requires flexibility to support partnership with colleagues based in the United States.

Illumina's employee benefits are industry-leading and include, flexible time off, private medical insurance, compassion and care time off, leisure travel insurance, pension, employee stock purchasing program, volunteer time off, and much more!

Why You:

You are an experienced bioinformatics professional with a PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, statistics, mathematics, or a related scientific discipline. You combine strong analytical problem-solving skills with excellent communication abilities and enjoy working collaboratively across cross-functional teams. Your expertise includes data analysis, data visualisation, and the application of computational methods to genomics research. Experience with Python or R, ideally both, is essential, while knowledge of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), and clinical genomic products will help you make an immediate impact.

You thrive in dynamic environments where innovation and continuous improvement are valued. You are comfortable working independently, know when to engage others to solve complex challenges effectively, and are motivated by opportunities to contribute to products that improve patient outcomes. Most importantly, you share Illumina’s commitment to Make Customers Heroes by ensuring scientific excellence translates into meaningful customer success.

Responsibilities:

• Develop algorithm specifications and analytical approaches supporting NIPT product development
• Collaborate with assay development, regulatory, and bioinformatics teams to design, execute, and analyse experiments
• Conduct validation and verification activities for in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) clinical genomic products
• Contribute to cross-functional research and development initiatives focused on assay and algorithm innovation
• Communicate project objectives, progress, and outcomes clearly to stakeholders across multiple functions
• Document, present, and maintain bioinformatics workflows in accordance with established quality standards
• Apply statistical and computational methods to solve complex scientific and product development challenges
• Support additional programmes and strategic projects as business needs evolve
• Utilise programming languages such as Python and R to develop, analyse, and improve bioinformatics workflows
• Partner effectively with global colleagues while demonstrating accountability, collaboration, and scientific excellence
• WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
• We know the importance of your role and offer a collaborative and supportive environment where you are encouraged to expand your skills and knowledge. You will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge genomic technologies, contribute to innovative reproductive health products, and collaborate with talented scientists across multiple disciplines and geographies.
• Our team members are bright, energetic, and dedicated - they are the driving force behind our innovation and impact. To attract the best and brightest, we offer a competitive employee benefits program. We view it as a smart investment in our people, one that recognises the tremendous value they bring to our business every day. At Illumina, we push boundaries. We think beyond the conventional. We dream big. With the energy of so many bright and accomplished people, the opportunities are endless.

INDEUR

The estimated base salary range for the Sr. 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.