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Scientist (Synthetic Chemistry) - Onsite, Cambridge UK
Closing date - Thursday 19th February 2026
As a Scientist (Synthetic Chemistry) at Illumina you will join the synthetic chemistry group within the global research and development organization. You will work alongside PhD scientists and play a crucial role in developing novel molecules that underpin the key chemistries used in Illumina’s DNA sequencing technology. You will work in our labs to prepare and analyse samples, conduct experiments and develop methods on Illumina instruments. Full training will be provided, howevera relevant scientific degree and basic lab skills are essential.
This is a full-time, permanent role to be based onsite at Illumina’s Europe Headquarter in Cambridge, UK. The suitable candidate will have a BSc within a relevant subject such as Chemistry, or Biochemistry, with some lab based experience within industry being preferred. Full training will be provided however basic lab skills are essential for the role.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Synthesize target molecules using modern synthetic chemistry methods independently.
2. Purify, analyze and fully characterize isolated molecules by appropriate methods.
3. Record and document synthetic procedures, analyses, and results in detail and timely manner
4. Present results to management and at team meetings on a regular basis.
5. Assist and support routinely in equipment and lab maintenance.
6. Provide support to senior scientists within the chemistry group, as required
Requirements:
7. Degree in Chemistry or equivalent subject (BSc or MSc).
8. Practical experience in synthetic/organic chemistry is essential.
9. Good theoretical knowledge of modern synthetic chemistry is beneficial.
10. Good knowledge of modern analytical methods (HPLC, Mass Spec and NMR) is desirable.
11. Ability to work as part of a collaborative and multidisciplinary team
12. Excellent verbal and written communication skills
13. Highly self-motivated, organized and willing to learn and develop new skills
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 To learn more, visit:. 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.