Overview
Automation Specialist - Cambridge, UK at Illumina. You will be part of Illumina’s On-Market Support and Development (OMSD) team, contributing to the continuous improvement of automated sample preparation and NGS workflows. Your work will directly support Illumina’s mission to improve human health by unlocking the power of the genome.
This role is ideal for a candidate with experience in assay, product development and in liquid handling automated workflows. You will work with Hamilton liquid handling systems and VENUS software to support the on-market performance of Illumina\'s library preparation products, including VeriSeq Non Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT).
Illumina offers a broad employee benefits program and a culture that emphasizes belonging, inclusion, and opportunity for growth.
Responsibilities
* Lead the development and optimization of automated genomics workflows on Hamilton liquid handling systems, with experience in VENUS software.
* Program and troubleshoot Hamilton systems with a focus on technical performance, end-to-end workflow continuity, and user-friendly execution, including scripting for standard use and advanced script customization.
* Independently initiate, direct, and execute development activities collaborating with assay teams to support scientific studies, including complaint investigations, design improvements, and product characterization.
* Take ownership of small automation design improvement projects or significant portions of larger automation initiatives, with oversight.
* Define project scope and objectives; assist in developing instructions and guidelines to perform functions effectively.
* Develop verification and validation test plans; lead and/or execute study protocols and generate reports.
* Contribute to the creation of technical documentation, protocols, and training resources to support reproducible implementation.
* Lead and participate in risk assessments and FMEA activities, refining user and system requirements.
* Represent on-market automation in cross-functional project teams and coordinate with technical and cross-functional teams (Assay, Engineering, Software, Manufacturing, Field Support) to implement design changes and troubleshoot investigations.
* Communicate results and conclusions to aid team decision making in a fast-paced environment.
* Influence decisions at critical interfaces to other disciplines using your expertise and insights.
Requirements
* Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field with 5+ years of relevant experience in a product development environment; clinical development experience is preferred.
* Experience developing workflows for automated laboratory liquid handling platforms (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, Eppendorf).
* Familiarity with scripting/programming languages such as Python or R; knowledge of additional languages (e.g., JavaScript) may be beneficial for integration needs.
* Familiarity with integrating automated liquid handling solutions.
* Experience with verification and validation activities for automation workflows; familiarity with regulated environments (ISO 13485, IVD, CLIA) is helpful but not required.
* Strong collaboration and communication skills; ability to work in fast-paced, cross-functional environments.
* Ability to reprioritize project work in response to changing needs of on-market products.
* Hands-on, proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
What to Expect
Illumina values a collaborative, energetic team. We offer a competitive benefits program and opportunities for growth. Illumina is committed to belonging, openness, collaboration, and seeking diverse perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are an equal opportunity employer and provide accommodations as needed in accordance with local laws. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Note: All listed requirements are essential functions; business conditions may require reasonable accommodations for additional tasks and responsibilities.
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